COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Crew has traded forward Gyasi Zardes to the Colorado Rapids.
In return, the Crew would reportedly receive $300,000 in General Allocation Money but could increase to $1.4 million if Zardes reaches multiple incentives with the Rapids.
Zardes joined Columbus in 2018 and has played in 110 matches with 100 starts. In his four-plus years, he scored 54 goals with six assists.
This season, Zardes has played in all seven games but has only one start.
Before coming to Columbus, Zardes began his professional career with the LA Galaxy, signing as a Homegrown player prior to the 2013 season. He scored 40 goals in 155 appearances.
At the international level, Zardes has made 68 appearances for the U.S., scoring 14 goals.
“First and foremost, we want to thank Gyasi personally as he has been an important member of the Crew and the Columbus community since joining in 2018. We know Gyasi quickly became a fan favorite given all of his contributions both on the field and throughout Central Ohio and we did not take this decision lightly,” said Columbus Crew President and General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. “When we think about the type of character and family we want in Columbus and in this League, Gyasi is a wonderful example of someone who fully embraced what it means to be a Crew player. He will always be a part of Crew history and our Black & Gold family.”
The move also opens up a Designated Player spot on the roster.
The Rapids will pick up the rest of Zardes' full budget charge for the remainder of the 2022 season.
