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Matt Hartmann, Dizon involved in rare UFL "trade"

PinoyFootball.com (file photo)
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--In a rare moment for a non-MLS football league, two UFL clubs consummated what could count as a trade.

Global and Loyola agreed in principle for a back-to-back transfer that will see Matthew Hartmann and Curt Dizon swapping jerseys.

Hartmann will reunite with his younger brother Mark at Global, while Curt, a former national youth team member, will join the Younghusband Brothers at Loyola.

The trade for Matt Hartmann came in time for Global's AFC Cup campaign which will kick off on Feb. 25, although he and Dizon will only be cleared to resume UFL play on April, when the transfer window officially opens. Hartmann, however, can suit up for Global against South China in the AFC Cup tie.

Loyola manager Armand Del Rosario felt saddened by Hartmann's departure and even revealed that the club is considering giving him an extension.

“We were on the verge of signing him to a longer term contract, but the pull to play with his brother and to play in the AFC Cup decided it. Although we didn’t want to lose him, with Global’s interest, it was a decision that was a win for both clubs. We wish him the best of luck," Del Rosario said on Loyola's website.

Meanwhile, he expressed optimism for Dizon with Loyola. Del Rosario said, “Curt is an exciting young player. At 21 years old he’s got a bright future ahead of him for the Azkals, and for Meralco.”

Ironically, both clubs faced off in the PFF-Smart Club Championship final, where Loyola blanked Global, 2-0, with Hartmann, the eventual MVP, scoring the dagger.