Aaronson to Colorado

Paxten Completed His Move to the MLS for Nearly $8 Million

The Colorado Rapids have completed a landmark signing, acquiring U.S. men's national team midfielder Paxten Aaronson from Germany's Eintracht Frankfurt on a five-year contract through 2030. The deal represents a club-record transfer fee, reportedly worth up to €7 million ($8 million), surpassing the €4.5 million ($5.2 million) previously paid for Rafael Navarro.

Aaronson, who turns 22 next Tuesday, will occupy a designated player slot on Colorado's roster. The Medford, New Jersey native most recently spent the 2024-25 season on loan at FC Utrecht in the Netherlands' Eredivisie, where he impressed with nine goals and six assists in 37 league appearances, earning a nomination as a finalist for the Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year award.

Rapids president Pádraig Smith praised the acquisition, stating, "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."

Aaronson has earned four senior caps for the United States and was part of the squad that won the 2023-24 Concacaf Nations League and reached the 2025 Gold Cup final. He also represented the U.S. at the 2024 Paris Olympics, starting all four matches.