Cristian Arango Traded to San Jose Earthquakes

Real Salt Lake has traded star forward Cristian "Chicho" Arango to the San Jose Earthquakes for $1.5 million in General Allocation Money (GAM) and an international roster spot. Arango, who joined RSL for a club-record $6 million in 2023, was a standout performer last season, leading the team with 17 goals and 12 assists, tying the franchise record for goals in a season. This trade comes just weeks before RSL's first match of the 2025 season, where questions loom over the team's offensive capabilities following Arango's departure. The Colombian striker's previous stints included successful seasons with LAFC and Pachuca, with notable achievements such as earning MLS Newcomer of the Year honors in 2021. RSL is set to begin its preseason on January 13, 2025, and kick off the MLS season against the Earthquakes on February 22. The move reflects both a strategic shift for RSL and an opportunity for Arango to continue his career in San Jose.