Former USA goalkeeper Tim Howard has reacted after Middlesbrough’s bid for American full-back Max Arfsten was rejected.
Talented full-back Max Arfsten of MLS side Columbus Crew has been a prominent target for Middlesbrough this summer transfer season, as the Championship club looks to strengthen their defensive options with deadline day approaching.
The 24-year-old American has impressed over the last two MLS seasons with his dynamism in wide areas, which might be crucial for Rob Edwards’ side.
Edwards previously worked with Alfie Doughty in that position at Luton Town, who moved to Millwall this summer. Arfsten embodies all of the qualities that Edwards values in a full-back and would love to see him at the Riverside this season.
In addition to his defensive stability, Arfsten is well-known in America for his attacking abilities, as the left-wing back has nine goals and 11 assists in 54 league appearances with the Columbus Crew over the last two seasons, and thus fits the bill for a Rob Edwards team.
According to Teesside Live, Middlesbrough had a bid of around £2.25 million rejected for their top target and may now explore for alternative options as the transfer deadline approaches.
Former Everton and Manchester United goalkeeper Tim Howard commented on the bid, saying the fee paid was insufficient.
Tim Howard discusses Middlesbrough’s offer for Max Arfsten
Howard spoke out on the Unfiltered Soccer Podcast with former US national teammate Landon Donovan over Middlesbrough’s approach to signing Arfsten, stating that English teams do not value MLS players highly enough in his opinion.
Howard remarked, “I mean, Middlesbrough man, pay us what you owe us.” This is ridiculous. He’s a promising young player for the United States national team. If he keeps playing like this, he’ll almost certainly make the World Cup roster. The rest of the world needs to wake up. This is a slap in the face.
“People who continuously moan about us saying things like, ‘Woe is me with the American player.’ This is one example of it. If this were a young French youngster, a young French left back who had just made the national team, he would be worth $20 million. You cannot buy a bag of balls for $3 million!
Howard went on to remark, “So hats off to Columbus for saying ‘thanks, but no thanks.”
Max Arfsten to Middlesbrough appears to be a challenging transaction
Despite continuous transfer talk that Arfsten could move to the Championship, Columbus Crew are resolute not to let their prized jewel leave unless the price is right.
Because the MLS side has maintained their stance despite Boro’s interest, the North Yorkshire club may have to consider alternative possibilities, such as Southampton’s Charlie Taylor, according to Teesside Live.
Representatives presented Taylor to Boro. However, with the experienced 31-year-old making only eight appearances last season, the young and exciting Arfsten remains their top choice in the left-back position, but with time running out in what appears to be a difficult deal to complete, Edwards may have to settle for Taylor.
Leave a Reply