NYCFC made some moves on the last day of the primary transfer window

Monday was the last day of the primary transfer window for Major League Soccer, and to no one's surprise, New York City FC made some moves. While the team did not bring in a striker, which was expected at this point, they did make some moves that were smart for the future of the club.

To begin, NYCFC announced that they traded away an international roster spot to the LA Galaxy.  In return, the Pigeons received $162,500.00 of General Allocation Money which they will received in the 2024 season.  This will assist the club with signing players, but as always, GAM can be used to bring down another player’s salary. 

Some might question the trade, but NYCFC possibly got an international spot right back.  Before the window closed, it was reported the Pigeons traded Malte Amundsen to the Columbus Crew in exchange for allocation money.  It is unknown whether Amundsen gives the international spot back to the Bronx side, for it is reported he will not occupy one at Columbus. At least the move opens up another roster spot, and again, adds money that the team can use.

NYCFC made moves by trading away international roster spot and Malte Amundsen

For Amundsen, the move to leave New York City FC was the right one.  He fell out of favor last season when Nick Cushing took over, and now with the signing of Braian Cufré, it was unlikely the Danish left-back would be the productive player he once was.  Plus, he has not made any appearances yet this season. 

The 25-year-old first joined back in 2021, where he mostly split the time with Gudmundur Thórarinsson in the position.  Then, when the singing left-back departed after the MLS Cup win, Amundsen mostly took over the role.  But then, as the 2022 season went on, he lost his spot after not-so great performances, especially on the offensive end.  2022 still was his best year minute wise, for he put in over 2,000 minutes of playing time in all competitions. 

Amundsen did have some good moments with the club, but in all honesty, he never lived up to his potential.  Sometimes in 2021, it was questionable why he started over Thórarinsson.  In 2022, he was not bad, and even looked to be improving at points.  But then, he did not, and Kevin O’Toole eventually took over at left-back toward the end of the season. 

It is sad to see another player leave after the mass exodus this offseason, but hopefully this move to Columbus will give Amundsen a second chance.  Plus, it works for NYCFC, for it does open another roster spot, and gives more flexibility when the summer transfer window starts.

While fans wanted the club to bring in a striker, it was clear from the beginning that they would not rush the process.  As a result, it is expected the big move will come during the summer.  Who will New York City FC sign?  That is yet to be determined.

Update: NYCFC officially announced earlier today that Amundsen was traded to Columbus for up to $500,000 of GAM, with $400,000 guaranteed.