Columbus Crew Transfers Star Max Arfsten to Middlesbrough

COLUMBUS, OH – After over three years since his debut with the Crew, Max Arfsten officially closes this chapter in Columbus.

The all-star wingback is headed overseas to Middlesbrough FC in England after agreeing to an undisclosed fee with the Crew. Over his three years in Major League Soccer, Arfsten developed into one of the prominent figures in the Crew’s success as part of the club’s MLS Cup run in 2023 and Leagues Cup title in 2024. 114 career appearances later, and Arfsten leaves behind an immeasurable legacy in the yellow and black.

“From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I truly believe this is an extremely special place, it’s hard to put into words just how much this Club means to me” said Arfsten in an interview with the club.

The 25-year old increased his playing time and his goal contributions over the years with the Crew, ultimately leading to consecutive Major League Soccer all-star appearances in the 2025 and 2026 seasons, as he now takes his talents to England.

Crew General Manager Issa Tall added, “Max’s versatility, work rate, and ability to create chances made him a dynamic player who could positively impact the game while providing special moments for our fans”.

Arfsten is not the first, or even second player with ties to the Crew to continue his career in England with Middlesbrough. His transfer comes a week after Middlesbrough acquired former Crew midfielder Sebastian Berhalter from the Vancouver Whitecaps. Both players join midfielder Aidan Morris, who made the switch from Columbus to North Yorkshire in the summer of 2024.

Arfsten’s move adds to a busy transfer window for the Crew, which also parts with the likes of forward Diego Rossi and defender Yevgen Cheberko, while adding attacking midfielder Brais Mendez, winger Lautaro Giaccone, plus defenders Eric Bailly and Brooks Lennon.