Christian Benteke joins Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney at DC United as Belgian striker completes MLS signing before Crystal Palace vs Arsenal

Christian Benteke has signed for DC United from Crystal Palace, joining Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney who is now the MLS club's manager.

Minutes prior to kick-off of Palace's Premier League opener against Arsenal at Selhurst Park, the Eagles confirmed the departure of their Belgian striker.

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The MLS club's statement read: DC United have signed Belgian International forward Christian Benteke from Crystal Palace in the English Premier League on a permanent transfer.

"Benteke will join the club as a Designated Player pending receipt of his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC).

"The Black-and-Red have signed Benteke on a two-and-a-half-year deal through 2024 with a club option in 2025."

Rooney said: “Christian is a top player who has played at the highest level for a long time.

"His experience and ability to score goals and help the team will be invaluable.

"It’s exciting for the team and myself to get him in and playing. He will make a huge difference.”

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Reports in America claim Benteke will become DC United's highest paid player.

Dave Kasper, D.C. United President of Soccer Operations, added: "We’ve been working hard over the last few weeks to bring in talent to bolster our squad.

"Being able to bring in a world class player of Christian’s [Benteke] calibre is a huge testament to what’s going on behind the scenes at the club and our ability to draw top talent globally.

"We have been extremely active in the transfer window bringing in six players and since Wayne Rooney’s appointment as our Head Coach we believe we have made major steps in putting together a roster that can both make a push to finish this season strong and build a foundation for us moving forward.”