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Martins says he's leaving Levante for Seattle

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FILE - In this March 7, 2013, file photo, Levante's Obafemi Martins (24), of Nigeria, competes for the ball with Rubin Kazan's Ivan Marcano, rear, of Spain, during their Europa League round of 16 first-leg soccer match in Valencia, Spain. Martins said Monday, March 11, on Twitter that he is leaving Levante to join the Seattle Sounders MLS soccer club. (AP Photo/Alberto Saiz, File)

(AP Photo/Alberto Saiz, File)

SEATTLE (AP) Nigerian forward Obafemi Martins says on Twitter he is leaving Spanish club Levante to join the Seattle Sounders.

Martins made his posts on Monday, which was followed by an announcement from Levante that he was leaving. Martins wrote that he wanted to give thanks to Levante for the chance to play in La Liga, but that signing with Seattle is, "a big step to take in my career."

At training on Monday, Seattle general manager Adrian Hanauer told reporters there was nothing official to announce but did not deny "indicators" that pointed to Martins playing for Seattle in the near future.

The Sounders have been seeking a replacement at forward to play alongside Eddie Johnson since Fredy Montero was loaned to Colombian club. The 28-year-old Martins had nine goals in 22 matches in all competitions for Levante this season.

His best seasons were with Inter Milan (2001-06) and Newcastle (2006-09).

Updated March 11, 2013

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