TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Loan
The Colorado Rapids have acquired Columbus Crew SC defender Lalas Abubakar on a season-long loan in exchange for $125,000 in Targeted Allocation Money, the clubs announced Wednesday.
Abubakar, 24, was selected No. 5 overall in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft by the Crew and has made 31 appearances in his MLS career. He has just one start this season, though.
"We are pleased to bring in a young and athletic defender in Lalas,” Rapids general manager Padraig Smith said in a club statement. “He is a quick and physical centerback with good experience in the league."
The Rapids have been busy around the Primary Transfer Window deadline day, acquiring USMNT winger Jonathan Lewis as well. The Rapids have conceded a league-high 27 goals this season and have yet to find their first win in 10 matches.
“We believe that this MLS season-long loan will give Lalas the opportunity to gain valuable minutes,” Crew president Tim Bezbatchenko said in a club statement. “The Targeted Allocation Money we have received in exchange will benefit us as we continue to shape our roster.”
