Columbus Crew forward Jacen Russell-Rowe is the subject of a bid from French club Toulouse, sources have confirmed to The Athletic. Toulouse has offered approximately $2 million, plus additional potential payments, for the Canadian international.
Potential Move to Europe
Russell-Rowe, 23, has expressed a desire to play in Europe. He currently has eight international appearances for Canada and is hoping to be selected for the World Cup squad this summer. His contract with Columbus expires at the end of the current year, meaning he could potentially sign a pre-contract agreement with another club as early as this summer if the Crew reject Toulouse’s offer.
Russell-Rowe progressed through the Toronto FC academy before joining the Columbus Crew’s second team, earning a promotion to the first team in 2022.
Columbus Crew’s Position
The Crew currently have depth in the forward position. Wessam Abou Ali, a Palestine international, was signed last summer after a strong performance with Al-Ahly at the FIFA Club World Cup. New coach Henrik Rydstrøm also has Diego Rossi and Daniel Gazdag available, and his preferred attacking lineups are yet to be determined.
Toulouse, currently eighth in Ligue 1, has previously recruited from MLS, signing Cristian Casseres Jr. from the New York Red Bulls. They also previously made an unsuccessful bid for Columbus Crew player Max Arfsten last summer. The club currently features former Philadelphia Union and USMNT center back Mark McKenzie.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the value of the bid from Toulouse?
Toulouse has submitted a bid worth around $2 million plus add-ons to the Columbus Crew for Jacen Russell-Rowe.
What are Russell-Rowe’s international aspirations?
Russell-Rowe has eight caps for Canada and is aiming to make Jesse Marsch’s World Cup squad this summer.
What other attacking options does Columbus Crew have?
Columbus Crew has Wessam Abou Ali, Diego Rossi, and Daniel Gazdag as forward options.
How will this potential transfer impact the landscape of MLS talent moving to European leagues?
