Struggling Rapids Pursue $1.6M Transfer for Israeli Defender, Signaling Roster Shakeup

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The Colorado Rapids are reportedly close to a $1.6 million transfer deal for Israeli international center back Stav Lemkin, a move that could have major implications for the struggling MLS club's roster.

According to sources confirmed by The Denver Post, the Rapids have agreed to the transfer fee for the 22-year-old Lemkin, who is currently on loan with the Israeli Premier League's Maccabi Tel Aviv. His contract is with Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk, but the deal may not be finalized until the MLS secondary transfer window opens in late July.

This potential signing signals a significant shift for the Rapids, who have struggled to find consistency this season, sitting eighth-worst in MLS with just 18 goals scored in 17 games. The move for Lemkin, a tall and experienced center back, could mean the end of veteran Andreas Maxsø's time in Colorado.

"It's highly unlikely the Rapids would cough up seven figures for a bench player, and it's equally unlikely the club would move to a five-back system that includes three center backs," the Post reported. "Essentially, it may end up being the end of Maxsø in Colorado."

Maxsø, a 31-year-old Danish international, has been a perennial starter for the Rapids but has drawn interest from Saudi Arabian clubs in the past. If the Rapids can recoup a similar transfer fee for Maxsø, it could allow them to shift towards a youth-focused model, with the 22-year-old Lemkin fitting that mold as a potential long-term solution.

However, the decision to prioritize a high-priced center back over bolstering the Rapids' struggling attack has raised some eyebrows among Colorado soccer fans. As The Denver Post previously reported, the Rapids are lacking sufficient threat on the flanks to complement their young midfield talent.

Nonetheless, the potential Lemkin signing represents a pivotal moment for the Rapids as they navigate a crucial transfer window and look to reshape their roster to better serve the Colorado community. Local supporters will be watching closely to see if this move sparks a turnaround for the struggling club.

AI-generated content. Opinion only. Verify independently.