Red Bull New York announced today that it has acquired allocation money and an international slot from the San Jose Earthquakes in exchange for defender Chris Leitch.

"This move gives us more roster flexibility as we prepare for the start of the MLS season," said Red Bull New York Sporting Director Jeff Agoos. "Chris has been a consummate professional during his time in New York and we wish him the best of luck in San Jose."

Leitch was in the midst of his second term with New York after he signed as a free agent on July 5, 2007. In 2008, Leitch played in 17 games and notched two assists. The 29-year-old also started in all four of the Red Bulls' playoff games in the team's run to the MLS Cup Final. Leitch has played a total of 101 regular season games for New York between his most recent stint and his first go-around with the club from 2003-05. The Baltimore, OH native was originally selected by the Columbus Crew in the fourth round (47th overall) in the 2002 MLS SuperDraft out of the University of North Carolina. He was a member of the Crew in 2002 and 2006.