Peltola, 21, has played centre-back and defensive midfield for HJK Helsinki, but is expected to play deep in midfield alongside veteran Russell Canoes at United.
Apart from his three years of experience in the Finnish league, Peltola has made 29 appearances in European competitions (UEFA Champions League qualifiers, Europa League and Europa Conference League). He made his debut for his national team a year ago and appeared in four European Championship qualifying matches (two starts).
United have only brought in three other experienced players this winter. They acquired center back Lucas Bartlett and midfielder Jared Stroud in a trade with St. Louis, and right back Aaron Herrera in a trade with Montreal.
Because Peltola was a free agent, United were able to sign him without paying a transfer fee. On DC’s roster, he is classified as a “young designated player.” Each team is allowed his three designated players, whose salaries fall outside the league’s standard guidelines.
United’s other DPs are striker Christian Benteke and midfielder Mateusz Klić. As a young DP (under 23), Peltola won’t have as much of an impact on the salary cap as Benteke or Klich.
In 2023, young DPs will receive $200,000 (ages 21-23) or $150,000 (under 20) to count toward the cap, while senior DPs will earn $651,250.
United open their pre-season game against Sudan in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday.