Report: Roy Miller to join Portland Timbers, but stick with Saprissa on loan

Teletica Deportes has advanced its earlier reporting on Roy Miller's possible move back to MLS from current club Deportivo Saprissa. The latest suggestion is the former New York Red Bulls defender will return to the North American top flight - signing with Portland Timbers - but will remain on loan to his Costa Rican club.

The loan deal, reports Teletica, is primarily to ensure Saprissa retains a competitive squad for its continuing involvement in the 2016-17 CONCACAF Champions League. The team will play Pachuca in February's quarterfinal round of the regional club championship. Saprissa is not favorite to win that match-up, but if it does progress, the semifinals are scheduled for March and early April, and the 2016-17 final is set for April 19 and 26 (it is a home-and-away series).

Miller would presumably join Portland once Saprissa's commitment to the current CCL tournament is over.

RBNY and Saprissa are on opposite sides of the draw for the knockout rounds of CCL, so they cannot meet unless both teams make the final.