Vancouver Whitecaps sign MLS NEXT Pro defender Nikola Djordjevic

VANCOUVER — The Vancouver Whitecaps have added to their backline, signing American defence Nikola Djordjevic to a Major League Soccer contract.

The team announced the deal Monday, saying it runs through the 2026 season with club options for 2027 and 2028.

Djordjevic, 23, had two goals and five assists in 26 appearances with Vancouver’s MLS NEXT Pro side, Whitecaps FC 2, this past season.

The Whitecaps selected the five-foot-nine, 175-pound athlete from Austin, Texas, 45th overall in last year’s MLS SuperDraft.

He previously played at Southern Methodist University where he captained the Mustangs in 2024, and provided one goal and five assists over 21 games.

Whitecaps sporting director Axel Schuster says Djordjevic is a versatile player who works hard defensively and knows when to step into the attack.

“Niko has earned his opportunity with the first team after an impressive season with WFC2,” Schuster said in a release.

“We’re excited to welcome Niko to the first team and look forward to supporting him as he continues to grow.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 15, 2025.

The Canadian Press