The Colorado Rapids have finalized a trade to bring in Chidozie Awaziem and Ian Murphy from FC Cincinnati, enhancing their defensive lineup.
In exchange, FC Cincinnati will receive $1 million in general allocation money, with the potential for an additional $200,000 in conditional payments. Furthermore, Cincinnati will retain a sell-on fee should either player be transferred internationally or traded within the league.
“We are excited to welcome Chidozie and Ian to the Rapids,” Rapids president Padraig Smith stated.
“Chidozie is a leader and a powerful defender with vast experience in Europe and on the international stage, while Ian has established himself as an athletic and accomplished defender in MLS.
“Both players are strong fits for our game model, and they bring added quality to our group as we look to build off a successful 2024 season and continue strengthening our team.”
Chidozie Awaziem, 27, contributed two assists in seven matches (all starts) for Cincinnati after joining the team from Boavista in Portugal during the midseason.
At senior level, Awaziem has been capped 31 times by Nigeria.
The soft spoken enforcer also lists FC Porto, Nantes, Leganes, Alanyasor and Hajduk Split as his former clubs.
