USMNT midfielder Paxten Aaronson completes Colorado Rapids move in record $7 million deal

Paxten Aaronson has completed a $7 million move to Colorado, the club announced Thursday afternoon. The USMNT midfielder has penned a five-year contract, and will occupy a designated player spot for the Rapids, who are seventh in the Western Conference.  

Aaronson was among the most effective young players in the Eredivisie last season after Frankfurt sent him on loan to surprise European contenders Utrecht. He scored nine and provided six assists, and was named among the finalists for the league's young player of the year award. The Rapids' acquisition comes a few weeks after they parted with attacking midfielder Djordje Mihailovic, who they surprisingly traded to Toronto on Aug. 7. 

Colorado Rapids president Padraig Smith hailed the acquisition of Aaronson in a statement.

"Bringing Paxten to Colorado highlights our ambition and belief in his ability to impact our team immediately," he said. "He has proven himself in Europe, gained valuable experience on the international stage with the U.S. Men’s National Team, and brings a dynamic, creative presence to our midfield. He is the exact type of young, hungry player we want to build around at this club, and we are delighted to welcome him to Colorado as we strengthen a team capable of competing at the highest level."

Aaronson is on the fringes of the USMNT. He has made four apperances for the senior side, and was in the squad that made it to the final of the 2025 Gold Cup.

The midfielder has completed his move to Colorado and will, presumably, be available for selection. The Rapids' next game is a Western Conference clash with struggling MLS Cup holders LA Galaxy on Saturday evening.