Rapids acquire Vallecilla from FC Cincy - Most expensive defender in club history

Colorado Rapids have acquired center-back Gustavo Vallecilla from FC Cincinnati in exchange for $400,000 in 2022 General Allocation Money (GAM), $400,000 in 2023 GAM, and an additional $50,000 in GAM if certain performance-based metrics are met. FC Cincinnati will retain 10% of any future transfer fee above what Rapids paid. The 22-year-old becomes the most expensive defender in Rapids' history (overview) and will occupy a U22 Initiative slot. 

"Gustavo is a young, explosive defender who is one of the top center back prospects in the country," Colorado Rapids general manager Pádraig Smith said in a club statement. "We believe he has the qualities to develop into a dominant defender in this league and look forward to welcoming him to the club." 

Cincinnati originally acquired Vallecilla on loan from SD Aucas last April and made the transfer permanent in a deal worth $1 million in January. The Ecuadorian national team player has managed 25 appearances (two goals) for FC Cincy in Major League Soccer.