CF Montréal adds veteran striker Daniel Rios on free-agent deal

FC Dallas' Osaze Urhoghide, left, defends against Vancouver Whitecaps' Daniel Rios during the second half in Game 1 of a first round MLS Cup playoff soccer match, in Vancouver, B.C., Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

MONTREAL — CF Montréal acquired free-agent forward Daniel Ríos on Friday, signing the veteran striker to a deal for the 2026 season with options that could keep him with the club through the 2027-28 campaign.

Rios spent last season with Vancouver Whitecaps on loan from Club Deportivo Guadalajara, recording three goals and three assists in 31 regular-season matches as the club reached the MLS Cup final.

The 30-year-old has five MLS seasons of experience, having also played for Nashville SC, Charlotte FC and Atlanta United.

In 112 MLS regular-season appearances, Rios has scored 22 goals and added 10 assists, along with two goals in 10 playoff games.

Rios previously enjoyed success in USL Championship, scoring 20 goals in back-to-back seasons with North Carolina FC and Nashville.

On the international stage, the Mexico City native has represented Mexico at the under-18, under-20 and under-21 levels.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 9, 2026.