Whitecaps sign M Ryan Gauld through 2027

The Vancouver Whitecaps signed playmaker Ryan Gauld to a contract extension through the 2027 season.

The Scottish midfielder has a team-high 60 goal contributions (26 goals, 34 assists) since joining the club in 2021.

Gauld, 28, was named the Whitecaps' Player of the Year for the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

"Since joining the club in the summer of 2021, Ryan has been the creative force behind our attack and one of the league's best players," sporting director Axel Schuster said in a news release Thursday. "He has helped us push forward as a club by making the MLS Cup Playoffs twice and winning two Canadian Championships, all while bringing a top level of professionalism to the locker room every day."

Gauld joined Vancouver as a designated player in July 2021 from Portugal's SC Farense.

He set career highs in goals (11) and assists (12) in 32 MLS matches (30 starts) last season.