From Gothenburg, Sweden, to Casa Grande, Ariz.
John Alvbage, 34, is on loan from IFK Goteborg with Minnesota United FC through July 15 with an 18-month extension option after that, according to statements from IFK Goteborg sporting director Mats Gren. He is expected to arrive at camp later this week.
Alvbage had been the keeper for his hometown club since 2012 and has amassed more than 400 appearances throughout his club career. He has also made a few appearances with Sweden's men's national team. He helped Goteborg win the Swedish Cup in 2012-13 and 2014-15 and was the Swedish top division's best goalkeeper in 2015.
The Loons will not comment on Alvbage's status with the team, as all the Major League Soccer paperwork han't been approved yet. But Alvbage is the likely No. 1 keeper heading into the regular season kickoff March 3 at Portland.
Alvbage joins fellow Swede Mo Saeid on United's roster. Both had played, at different times, for Saeid's hometown club Orebro SK. Alvbage is also now the oldest member of the Loons.
Norwegian defender Vadim Demidov, who was expected to arrive at practice Thursday, had flight issues and will instead begin practice Friday. Costa Rican men's national team members Francisco Calvo and Johan Venegas are set to arrive to camp Monday.
