Toronto FC acquires goalkeeper Clint Irwin from Colorado Rapids
Toronto FC announced on Monday the club has traded for Colorado Rapids goalkeeper Clint Irwin, sending a third-round 2016 SuperDraft pick, a conditional 2017 first-round draft pick, and targeted allocation money the other way.
Irwin, 26, joined the Rapids in 2013 and has been the starting 'keeper in Colorado over the last three seasons. He joins a Toronto FC team in desperate need of net-minders, having traded Joe Bendik to Orlando City and released Chris Konopka on waivers.
I can't wait to get to the wonderful city of Toronto and help @torontofc win trophies this year. Back to where it all began in Canada!
— Clint Irwin (@ClintIrwin) January 18, 2016
The Reds' first-team features both Alex Bono and Quillan Roberts, promising young goalkeepers who aren't quite ready for first-team responsibility. In Irwin, TFC gains not only an MLS-quality goalkeeper but a player who is already familiar with stud central defender Drew Moor, who TFC picked up last month out of Colorado as well.
(Courtesy: Toronto FC)
"Improving our defence has been a stated priority for our club this offseason," club general manager Tim Bezbatchenko said in a statement. "Bringing in Clint helps to solidify our defensive group, and with Clint on board we are confident in our collection of goalkeepers across the first team and TFC2.
"We are very excited about what Clint will add to our group and look forward to his quick transition into our team, which is aided by his familiarity with Drew (Moor) in Colorado."
Irwin has made 92 appearances in MLS, registering 25 clean sheets in that time.
"Clint has been the consummate professional during his time with our club," Rapids technical director Paul Bravo said in a statement. "On behalf of everyone, I would like to thank him for his contribution on and off the field and wish him well for the future."