Orlando City acquires Justin Meram from Columbus Crew

Justin Meram will be playing in the 407.

On Monday, Orlando City SC acquired Meram from Columbus Crew SC in exchange for $750,000 in Targeted Allocation Money, $300,000 in General Allocation Money, and a 2019 international roster slot to be returned to the Lions in 2020.

"Justin is the ideal fit to round out our attacking group," Niki Budalic, Orlando's general manager, said. "He's a proven contributor in our league who can both score and create goals. His one-v-one ability and versatility to operate in various roles will add another dimension to our attack."

Meram, who was born in the United States but plays for Iraq, spent the last seven seasons with the Crew and tallied 13 goals and seven assists while appearing in all 34 of Columbus' regular-season games in 2017. An attacking midfielder who operates on the left and can play as a forward, he led the club to the Eastern Conference final for the second time in three years.

Meram took to Twitter to say goodbye to the Crew, writing: "Where do I start ... An emotional day for myself as I say goodbye to the club who drafted me, molded me into the person I am today and gave me the opportunity to fulfill my dream as a professional for seven years. The fans have welcomed a Michigan man into Ohio as one of their own. My coaches have helped me raise my level on the field, any my teammates who I battled with every day at training and under the lights! THANK YOU COLUMBUS ... This was not easy for me by any means asking to move on but it was time. Time for me to be fearless and move on to the next chapter of my life with new challenges. Orlando City SC ... I am so excited for this opportunity, your belief in me and I am ready to help this club achieve great things in the near future."