San Diego FC lands New York Red Bulls star defender in blockbuster 2025 move

San Diego FC isn't messing around when it comes to strengthening their defense for their debut season in Major League Soccer in 2025. The club officially announced the signing of center-back Andrés Reyes, one of the most solid and consistent defenders in the league in recent years. The acquisition comes directly from the New York Red Bulls in a deal valued at $800,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM), split between the 2025 and 2026 seasons, with a future sell-on percentage included.

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Who is Andrés Reyes?

Reyes, 25, is no stranger to Major League Soccer. The Colombian defender started his professional voyage with the historic Atlético Nacional, with whom he lifted the 2018 Copa Colombia, while being a runner-up that season in the Apertura tournament. In 2020, he made a shift to the United States when he joined Inter Miami back in the days when the club was on an emerging streak. However, it was with the New York Red Bulls that Reyes nailed a serious spell.

The Colombian wore the NYRB colors in 96 matches, starting 71, with 5 goals and 2 assists across four seasons. In 2024, Reyes played an important role in the Red Bulls' playoff run, scoring the winner in the Eastern Conference Final against Orlando City SC. That important strike sealed the Red Bulls' second-ever appearance in an MLS Cup final.

On the international stage, Reyes also left his mark. He has two appearances for the senior national team of Colombia and scored a vital goal in their 3-2 win over Mexico this December 2023. Reyes showed the world his skill at an early age when he appeared in the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup, proving that he had the weight to shoulder the onus of representing the Cafeteros on the world stage.

San Diego FC's vision for the future

San Diego FC goes into the 2025 season with a clear-cut objective: to leave its mark in an increasingly competitive MLS. Reyes' signing, underlined by Sporting Director Tyler Heaps, reflects a very thought-out strategy-invest in experienced players who have room to grow.

“We’re excited to welcome Andrés to our team. As a solid center-back with five seasons of MLS experience, Andrés has proven his value at this level while still having the potential to take his game even further at just 25 years old,” said Heaps.

Indeed, Reyes brings in more than just defensive stability. He has all the qualities required from a player in the modern game: strong in the air, crisp with his passing, and with a keen sense of timing in the tackle and when intercepting. He will be a cornerstone alongside other recent defensive signings like Paddy McNair-on loan at West Bromwich Albion-and Christopher McVey. The trio promises to form the backbone of a robust defense, which is the foundation any new team needs.