Colorado Rapids acquire Ghanaian center midfielder Ali Fadal from Valencia B in Spain. The two-year deal addresses the team's need for a defensive midfielder. The Rapids also trade a 2025 international roster slot to Columbus Crew for $200,000 in GAM and the Crew's 2026 MLS SuperDraft first-round pick.
Colorado Rapids have bolstered their midfield with the signing of Ghanaian center midfielder Ali Fadal. Fadal, 21, joins the Rapids from Valencia B in Spain's fourth tier, Segunda Federación. The two-year deal, which runs through the 2026 season with club options for 2027 and 2028, awaits Fadal's International Transfer Certificate and P-1 Visa approval before he officially joins the team.
Fadal's journey with Valencia began in July 2023 when he joined the B team after spending a year with their U-19 squad. His most notable appearance came in December 2023, as a substitute in Valencia CF's Copa Del Rey quarterfinal against Arosa SC. While primarily featuring for Valencia B, accumulating 31 appearances and one assist over two seasons, he showcased versatility in midfield roles, including central and defensive positions. The Rapids' recent signings address key needs identified this offseason. Chidozie Awaziem and Ian Murphy are expected to fill the center back void, while Ted Ku-DiPietro is anticipated to contribute on the wing. This leaves Fadal primed to slot into the defensive midfield role. Further bolstering their roster, the Rapids secured a 2025 international roster slot from Columbus Crew in exchange for $200,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) and the Crew's natural first-round pick in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft. This strategic move provides the Rapids with additional financial flexibility and a valuable draft asset.The trade with Columbus was facilitated by the Rapids' recent roster maneuvers. They opened up two international roster slots by mutually terminating defender Daniel Chacón's contract and French winger Kévin Cabral obtaining his green card. The acquisition of Fadal fills one of these slots, leaving the Rapids well-positioned for the upcoming season. With the season kicking off soon, it seems unlikely that the Rapids will make any further significant moves during this transfer window unless they secure a coveted MLS player.
COLORADO RAPIDS ALI FADAL TRANSFER MLS SPAIN VALENCIA B DEFENSIVE MIDFIELDER COLUMBUS CREW TRADE
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