According to Transfermarkt, the Colorado Rapids have signed Middlesbrough forward Morgan Whittaker for $13 million.

Whittaker has signed a Designated Player (DP) contract with the MLS club through the 2029/30 season, with an option to extend for the 2030/31 season.

Colorado Rapids President Pádraig Smith stated in the club's announcement: "Morgan is a proven game-changer who will bring excellent ability and a strong offensive threat to our team. He can create chances and score goals from wide areas, and combined with his vision, technical ability, and decision-making, he fits perfectly into Matt's tactical system. Morgan is in the prime of his career, and we believe he can make an immediate and significant impact in MLS. We are delighted to welcome him to Colorado."

Whittaker becomes the most expensive signing in Colorado Rapids history. This transfer fee also ranks among the most expensive transfers in MLS history. Whittaker's market value is €18 million, surpassing Evander (Columbus) and Josh Sargent (Toronto), both valued at €16 million, making him the most valuable player in MLS.

Whittaker Joins Colorado; Middlesbrough Receives Below-Market Fee

Despite selling Whittaker at below market value, Middlesbrough will still profit from the deal. The Championship club signed the forward from Plymouth for €7.1 million in January 2025. Whittaker had his most prolific season at Plymouth, scoring 19 goals and providing 8 assists in 46 Championship appearances. His numbers declined slightly at Middlesbrough, but he still contributed 14 goals and 7 assists in 40 Championship games.

However, Whittaker's performance at Middlesbrough was inconsistent. At one point last season, the 25-year-old went nine consecutive league matches without scoring. It wasn't until the end of the season that he found the net again, scoring three goals in his final four matches. This inconsistency may be one reason Middlesbrough decided to sell. Whittaker is versatile and has played as a winger, forward, and attacking midfielder.

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