American goalkeeper Diego Restrepo says he will be plying his trade in South America after agreeing to terms with Colombian club America de Cali.

Restrepo recently completed his senior season as the starting netminder for the University of Virginia Cavaliers.

The Florida native has been in Cali since January 3rd and underwent a successful trial with the four-time Copa Libertadores runners-up.

The two parties agreed to a contract earlier Thursday. Attemps to reach the club for verification were unsuccessful however Restrepo was happy to share the news of his new venture.

"I'm very excited to join America de Cali, one of the most historic clubs both in Colombia and in South American soccer," Restrepo told YA. "Since my arrival in Colombia, Coach Aponte, his staff and everybody associated with the club have been first class and have made me feel part of the team. I look forward to helping the club going forward and do my part to maintain the tradition of excellence established at America."

Restrepo will have his first opportunity to don an America jersey in several upcoming friendly matches, with his first opportunity being this Saturday versus Junior de Barranquilla.

America will then participate in the Cafam Cup, a pre-season tournament in Bogota starting January 26th, which will pit the biggest names in Colombian soccer a week before the start of the Colombian Apertura.

"It's a dream come true for me, I'm very thankful to all the coaches and teammates throughout my career that have helped mold me as a soccer player and as a person," concluded Restrepo. "I'm specially thankful of Coach Gelnovatch, his staff and everybody associated with the University of Virginia."

"My time as a Cavalier was amazing, and I will always remember the 2009 NCAA Championship season as a very special time in my life. The University of Virginia and Klockner Stadium will always be home to me, and I look forward to coming back to Charlottesville this summer to finish my degree."