MLS
AEK Athens target Cade Cowell, but USMNT player set for Chivas
Cowell, 20, looks likely to join Chivas Guadalajara, despite interest in the San Jose Earthquakes youngster from AEK.
San Jose Earthquakes winger Cade Cowell, who appears set for a move to Liga MX club Chivas Guadalajara, is also being chased by Greek champions AEK Athens.
AEK head coach Matías Almeyda, who has previously had stints in charge at both San Jose and Chivas, is thought to be keen to add the USMNT international to his squad.
Cowell’s Chivas switch “close”
However, Cowell looks destined to join Chivas, with The Athletic’s MLS insider Tom Bogert revealing that the Mexican club has agreed a $4m transfer fee with the Earthquakes.
Per Bogert, Chivas’ deal to sign the 20-year-old is “close, but not there yet”, as the player is yet to agree personal terms with Los Rojiblancos.
How does Cowell qualify to play for Chivas?
Chivas’ club rules only allow footballers born in Mexico or of Mexican heritage to play for the 12-time domestic champions.
Cowell’s mother is Mexican, so despite representing the US in international soccer, the youngster is eligible to turn out for Guadalajara. Indeed, he holds dual US-Mexican citizenship.
Cowell’s Earthquakes, USMNT stats
Last season, Cowell made a total of 24 appearances for the Earthquakes in MLS, scoring once and supplying three assists as San Jose reached the playoffs’ wild card round.
In all, he has featured 114 times for the Earthquakes, netting 12 goals and providing 12 assists.
He has been capped eight times by the USMNT, scoring once and setting up one goal, since making his debut for the Stars and Stripes in 2019.