English Premier League veteran Nigel Reo-Coker signs with Whitecaps

The Vancouver Whitecaps have acquired former English Premier League star Nigel Reo-Coker.

The Whitecaps acquired the first right of refusal to Reo-Coker from Portland Timbers in exchange for Vancouver's natural second-round picks in the 2014 and 2015 MLS SuperDraft. Coach Martin Rennie said Vancouver has already signed Reo-Coker.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Coker can has played as both a defender and midfielder.

The 28-year-old London native has appeared in over 200 EPL matches and last played for English Championship side Ipswich Town on a three-month stint. He has captained EPL squads West Ham United FC, Aston Villa, and Bolton Wanderers.

Reo-Coker will join the Whitecaps in Charleston, S.C., on Friday, as they continue with preseason games before their March 2 season-opener at home against Toronto FC.