Colorado Rapids reportedly agree deal to sign former Arsenal center back Rob Holding

The Rapids are reportedly on the verge of bringing in Rob Holding from Crystal Palace, according to GiveMeSport. The center back, who has established himself as a Premier League-ready talent, was a steady reserve option for Arsenal from 2016-2023 and spent last year on loan at Sheffield United. Holding was a free agent after his two-year deal with Palace expired.

Holding figures to offer veteran experience to the Rapids backline. The former England youth international was a steady option for Arsenal over the years, and started most of the 2020-21 season before manager Mikel Arteta deemed him surplus to requirements. Colorado was down on defensive options after Chidozie Awaziem left the club for FC Nantes earlier this season.

Holding figured to be a regular for Palace before manager Oliver Glasner froze the defender out of the squad. The manager refused to comment on the apparent void between the two players, commenting that: "He knows the reason. But it is something that stays between Rob and me. Nothing public."

The center back is on the brink of the move with his medical reportedly set for this week. Colorado play Santos Laguna this evening as they start Leagues Cup play.