The Columbus Crew sent former MLS Cup MVP and midfielder Lucas Zelarayán to Al Fateh of the Saudi Pro League in a permanent transfer for an undisclosed transfer fee, the club announced on Monday.
Earlier Monday, the Crew acquired defender Rudy Camacho from CF Montreal on Monday in exchange for $400,000 in general allocation money split equally between 2023 and 2024.
Zelarayan, 31, played in 97 regular-season matches (85 starts) with the Crew since joining the Black and Gold in December 2019, recording 38 goals and 30 assists. He was named MLS Cup MVP when the Crew claimed the 2020 MLS championship.
“This transfer is beneficial for both the Crew and the player, and it provides us with additional resources and opportunities as we approach the close of the secondary window and plan for the future as we look to remain consistently competitive,” Crew president Tim Bezbatchenko said. “We are confident in our Club’s leadership, direction and personnel as we continually strive to bring trophies to Columbus.”
Eternamente Agradecidos 🖤💛
A true magician on the field. From the Club and the entire city, we wish you the best in your next endeavor. pic.twitter.com/VgQL9K0Lol
— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) July 31, 2023
The Crew acquired Zelarayan from Liga MX’s Tigres UANL on Dec. 20, 2019, as a designated player for a club-record acquisition transfer fee.
Camacho, 32, recorded one goal in 20 matches (19 starts) this season for CF Montreal.
“Rudy’s skillset and leadership provide a solid veteran presence to our backline, especially given his familiarity with Coach (Wilfried) Nancy and our team’s desired style of play,” Bezbatchenko said. “A high-caliber player and consistent starter for Montreal in recent years, he is another strong addition to our club as we continue to improve the roster during the summer window.”
Camacho has totaled seven goals in 128 career matches (126 starts) for CF Montreal.
“CF Montreal thanks Rudy for his six years of service to the club,” CF Montreal vice president Olivier Renard said. “We wish him success in this next chapter of his career.”