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The Colorado Rapids announced a trade to acquire Chidozie Awaziem and Ian Murphy from FC Cincinnati on Monday, adding two defenders to strengthen their back end.

Cincinnati will receive $1 million in general allocation money with another $200,000 in conditional payments possible. The club also owns a sell-on fee if either player is moved abroad or traded within the league.

“We are excited to welcome Chidozie and Ian to the Rapids,” Rapids president Padraig Smith said. “Chidozie is a leader and a powerful defender with vast experience in Europe and on the international stage, while Ian has established himself as an athletic and accomplished defender in MLS.

“Both players are strong fits for our game model, and they bring added quality to our group as we look to build off a successful 2024 season and continue strengthening our team.”

The 27-year-old Awaziem recorded two assists over seven games (all starts) for Cincinnati after being acquired from Boavista (Portugal) midseason.

Murphy, 24, appeared in 80 games over three seasons in Cincinnati, with 56 starts. He had one goal and one assist over that time period.

Cincinnati finished third in the Eastern Conference in 2024 with 59 points (18-11-5 W-L-T record) while Colorado was seventh in the West with 50 points (15-14-5).

–Field Level Media