The Houston Dynamo FC acquired Philadelphia Union midfielder Jack McGlynn in the first cash-for-homegrown player trade in Major League Soccer history on Monday.
The Union will receive $2.1 million in guaranteed money and also retain a sell-on percentage of any future transfer. The club also could acquire an additional $1.3 million if McGlynn meets designated performance milestones.
The MLS began allowing teams to trade players for cash in January, and this is the second such transaction but first for a homegrown player. Previously, deals had to involve general allocation money or other assets but not straight cash.
McGlynn, 21, made 108 appearances in the regular season and postseason for the Union since 2021 and tallied seven goals and 15 assists. He also plays for the U.S. Men’s National Team.
“Jack is one of the bright, young American talents in both MLS and the U.S. National Team player pool, and we look forward to his continued development in Houston,” said Pat Onstad, the Dynamo’s president of soccer. “We expect him to thrive in our possession-oriented style of play, as Jack’s strengths match the attributes that we value in our central midfielders.”
In 2024, McGlynn had a career high of 30 appearances and 25 starts for Philadelphia. He also set career highs in goals and assists and landed in the No. 3 spot on the MLS 22 under 22 list.
“We want to thank Jack for his dedication and contributions to the team, both on and off the field,” said Ernst Tanner, Philadelphia’s sport director. “Over the past three years, he has been a key part of our midfield, and we are incredibly proud of his growth. At this time, we believe this move is best for both the club and for Jack, allowing us to use the significant proceeds to reinvest and refine our roster, while placing him in an environment suited to his style of play and continued development.”
–Field Level Media
