The Columbus Crew, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, has announced the permanent transfer of their Homegrown midfielder, Aidan Morris, to English Football League Championship side Middlesbrough F.C. The transfer fee remains undisclosed, but the Crew will retain a percentage of any future transfer fees for Morris.

Morris, who joined the Crew Academy in 2017, has had an impressive career with the club. The 22-year-old midfielder has played in 83 MLS regular season matches, scoring six goals and providing 14 assists. He played a crucial role in the Crew's victory in the 2020 and 2023 MLS Cups, starting all seven postseason matches in which he appeared.

In recognition of his outstanding performances, Morris was named to his first MLS All-Star Game last season and was honored as a 22 Under 22 presented by BODYARMOR selection, highlighting him as one of the league's best young talents.

Crew General Manager Issa Tall expressed his appreciation for Morris's dedication to the club and his growth as both a player and a person. Morris has been regarded as an exceptional role model for the Crew Academy players and has made a significant impact on the team's history.

Morris expressed his gratitude to the Crew fans, organization, and the individuals who have supported him throughout his journey. He mentioned the relationships he has built and emphasized their importance, stating that they have meant more to him than winning.

The transfer to Middlesbrough marks an important milestone for both Morris and the Columbus Crew. It showcases the club's commitment to developing talented players who can compete at a high level.

Morris's impressive performances caught the attention of national team selectors, earning him his first senior cap in 2023. He has since earned a total of five senior caps and recently participated in the U.S. Under-23s pre-Olympic training camp.

Morris signed a Homegrown contract with the Crew in January 2020 and made his MLS debut later that year. Despite missing the entire 2021 season due to a knee injury, Morris returned to action in 2022, appearing in 27 league matches.

Throughout the 2023 season, Morris continued to excel, starting all 30 regular-season games and achieving career-high numbers with four goals and seven assists. He also played a crucial role in the Crew's postseason matches, providing an assist in the first round.

Prior to his time with the Crew, Morris showcased his talent at Indiana University, where he earned accolades such as Big Ten Freshman of the Year and Top Drawer Soccer's highest-ranked freshman in the nation.

With his transfer to Middlesbrough, Morris will embark on the next chapter of his career in Europe. The Columbus Crew applauds his dedication and wishes him success as he continues to display his skills and character at his new club.

The transfer of Aidan Morris to Middlesbrough F.C. signifies the Columbus Crew's success in developing young talent and paves the way for future players to make their mark on the international stage.

The transaction was officially announced on June 28, 2024. The transfer fee remains undisclosed, and the Crew will retain a percentage of any future transfer fees for Morris.