Associated Press

What was rumored Saturday and confirmed Sunday could be completed in a few hours or by the end of the week.

Peter Nowak said the Union are close to finishing a trade with Chivas USA to send captain Danny Califf to the California-based club for another player plus “something else.” According to Nowak, the trade is merely awaiting MLS approval.

And that's all well and good, that the Union are completing a trade they feel is in their best interests. For that, they should be commended.

Here's my hang-up … or three:

1. Getting experience. When times get tough and one loss becomes three, Nowak continually beats the 'these guys need experience' drum during his press conferences. Yet he and the Union are shipping away their vocal leader, their on-field captain, and the one guy in the locker room who holds himself accountable – win, lose or draw. Will a younger captain without such a leader be able to handle those responsibilities? My guess is no.

2. Who got the ball rolling? Nowak said Chivas USA reached out to the Union concerning the acquisition of Califf. But Wednesday, Nowak said California-born Califf – at some point – approached him regarding the desire to “go home.” When asked specifically about the root of the trade, Nowak backtracked and said “the initial offer come out of the blue. It's not like we go out and shop to sell Danny or trade him.” I guess it's a matter of who you ask.

3. Questionable timing. The Union are in a tailspin, having lost consecutive matches and requiring a winless Toronto FC side to stay out of the Eastern Conference's cellar. Granted, the Union's primary issues this season have been on the offensive side of the ball, but is trading Califf, one of the team's integral contributors on defense, a necessary thing at this stage of the season? Another couple losses could derail the entire season for the Union. My guess is no one can answer this question until the Union announce who they're getting in return.