Nigerian international Chidozie Awaziem has joined Major League Soccer side Colorado Rapids, alongside Ian Murphy, in a deal worth $1 million in General Allocation Money (GAM) from FC Cincinnati, Soccernet.ng reports.
The trade could see Cincinnati earn an additional $200,000 in conditional GAM based on performance metrics, with the club also retaining a percentage of future transfer fees for either player within MLS or abroad.
Colorado Rapids President Pádraig Smith expressed his enthusiasm for the new signings, saying:
“We are excited to welcome Chidozie and Ian to the Rapids. Chidozie is a leader and a powerful defender with vast experience in Europe and on the international stage, while Ian has established himself as an athletic and accomplished defender in MLS.
“Both players are strong fits for our game model and they bring added quality to our group as we look to build off a successful 2024 season and continue strengthening our team.”
Awaziem, 27, arrives after making 14 appearances and providing three assists in his sole season at Cincinnati.
The Nigerian center-back has enjoyed an extensive career in Europe, featuring for FC Porto and Boavista FC in Portugal, as well as Hajduk Split in Croatia, where he won the Croatian Football Cup in 2023.
He has made 33 appearances for the Super Eagles, including six starts during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and an appearance at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
With his contract running through 2025 and options for 2026 and 2027, Awaziem adds defensive depth to the Rapids, who are preparing for the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup.
Their campaign begins with a Round One clash against Los Angeles FC, with match dates yet to be confirmed.