Chicago City Wire

Chicago Fire FC has announced the acquisition of Ivorian midfielder Dje D’Avilla from União Desportiva de Leiria, which competes in Liga Portugal 2. D’Avilla will join as part of the U22 initiative and take an international roster spot. His contract will extend through the 2028 season, with an option for 2029. The specifics of the deal remain undisclosed per the Club's policy.

“We’re really looking forward to having Dje join us here in Chicago,” stated Chicago Fire FC Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter. “He’s an exciting player who has quite a bit of experience despite his young age, having already played in important matches in multiple leagues around the world. We’re confident that his quality and presence in the midfield will be a tremendous asset to the group.”

During his tenure at UD Leiria, the 21-year-old played in over 50 matches across three seasons. His performance in the 2024-25 season saw him participate in 26 matches, including 23 regular season games and three in the Portuguese Cup.

“We would like to thank UD Leiria for working so closely with us to complete this transfer,” said Gregg Broughton, Chicago Fire FC Sporting Director. “Dje is an excellent player, and we understand that it is an important time in their season. This opens the door to having a strong relationship with Leiria moving forward.”

D’Avilla commenced his career at Stella Club d’Adjamé in Ivory Coast and later was loaned to Lanfiara Sport Attécoubé during the 2020-21 season. He transitioned to Al Hilal United in Dubai's UAE Second Division League before joining UD Leiria in Portugal in the summer of 2022. He debuted in Portugal at 18, contributing to Leiria’s promotion to Liga 2 following the 2022-23 season.