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Sources have confirmed to the Sporting News’ Ives Galarcep that Atlanta United will be acquiring veteran center back Michael Parkhurst from the Columbus Crew in exchange for allocation money.
Sources: Atlanta United acquiring Michael Parkhurst from Columbus https://t.co/x7eVhmoK26 pic.twitter.com/Qorj4G6fZr
— Goal.com CA edition (@GoalCDA) December 7, 2016
Hailed as an intelligent player, the 32-year-old is one of the most technical defensive players in MLS and was a big part of the Crew’s run to MLS Cup in 2015. He was also part of three MLS Cup appearances with the New England Revolution.
He spent over six years in Europe playing for Nordsjælland in Denmark and Augsburg in Germany before returning to MLS and the Crew. Parkhurst has also made 24 appearances with the U.S. national team, winning the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2007 and 2013.
His passing ability should suit Tata Martino’s system very well, and his experience will likely be very useful on what appears to be a young roster in its first season in MLS. He has been a captain in Columbus with the Crew.
The reported trade cannot take place until the trade window opens after MLS Cup. The trade window will be open from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 11.