BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Birmingham Legion FC announced on Wednesday the club had acquired defender Derek Dodson on a season-long loan from Minnesota United FC of Major League Soccer. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Dodson joined Minnesota United in January after featuring a season ago for the Charleston Battery as the side claimed the USL Championship’s Eastern Conference title. The 25-year-old has primarily competed this season for Minnesota United FC 2 in MLS NEXT Pro this season, where he has made five appearances and recorded one assist.

“We are excited to have Derek join Legion FC,” said Legion Club President and General Manager Jay Heaps. “He has proven playing experience at the USL Championship-level and he is a high quality person that will fit well within our locker room.”

“We wish Derek the best as he goes on loan,” said Minnesota United Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Khaled El-Ahmad. “It’s important for him to continue to develop and get real minutes in highly competitive matches. We are happy he will be able to do so with a club like Birmingham Legion FC.”

Dodson recorded three goals and five assists in 39 appearances across all competitions for the Battery and went the full 120 minutes in the 2023 USL Championship Final against Phoenix Rising FC. Overall, the former Georgetown University standout has made 84 regular season appearances in the Championship, during which time he has recorded 10 goals and seven assists.