COLUMBUS – The Columbus Crew have agreed to terms with Al Fateh of the Saudi Pro League for the permanent transfer of midfielder Lucas Zelarayán for an undisclosed transfer fee.
Zelarayán, who joined the Black & Gold on Dec. 20, 2019 from Liga MX’s Tigres UANL, played in 97 regular season matches (85 starts) with the Crew, recording 38 goals and 30 assists. He was named MLS Cup MVP when the Crew claimed the 2020 league championship and was a key contributor as the Club won its first Campeones Cup in 2021.
“We greatly appreciate everything Lucas has done for the Crew, including his efforts to help us win the MLS Cup, the many memorable moments and goals, and his dedication to the Club and our supporters,” said President and General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. “When we signed Lucas, we knew he would make an immediate impact on our team, our club and our city, and we thank him for being a key contributor to the Club’s recent success and helping launch this new era of the Crew.
“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. We are confident in our Club’s leadership, direction and personnel as we continually strive to bring trophies to Columbus.”
The Crew acquired Zelarayán from Tigres as a Designated Player for a Club-record acquisition transfer fee. He made 20 appearances (16 starts) during the 2020 season, tallying six goals and four assists. Zelarayán scored twice and provided five assists during the Club’s run in the 2020 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. The Armenian international and two-time MLS All Star (2021, 2023) earned MLS Cup MVP honors after notching two goals and one assist in the team’s 3-0 win over Seattle Sounders FC as of the Crew captured the MLS Cup on December 12.
TRANSACTION: Columbus Crew transfer Lucas Zelarayán to Al Fateh of the Saudi Pro League for an undisclosed fee on July 31, 2023.
