New York Red Bulls sign Swedish defender

Swedish defender Markus Holgersson has agreed to sign with New York Red Bulls.

In an interview with Swedish tabloid Expressen, Red Bulls coach Hans Backe says the 26-year-old recently decided to accept his club's offer, calling it a ''great recruitment'' for the team.

Holgersson's Swedish club Helsingborgs confirmed the defender was leaving after declining to renew his contract that ended at the end of 2011, but would not comment on his future.

Holgersson did not answer telephone calls seeking comment Wednesday.

Helsingborgs Sports Director Jesper Jansson says ''it's a shame we're losing him, but we respect his choice to move on.''