Sebastian Berhalter Linked with Shock Middlesbrough Move
US men's national team midfielder Sebastian Berhalter is reportedly on the verge of transferring to EFL Championship side Middlesbrough, according to The Athletic's Tom Bogert. The 25-year-old Berhalter has been with the Vancouver Whitecaps since 2022 and is set to be out of contract following the 2026 MLS season.
Berhalter has made a name for himself in the MLS, appearing in all five matches for the USMNT at the World Cup and earning a spot in the MLS Best XI last season. He is also a two-time All-Star and has scored 14 goals in 120 appearances for Vancouver.
Middlesbrough will reportedly pay a $2 million transfer fee to Vancouver, who reached the MLS Cup final and won the Canadian Championship last season. Berhalter's move to Middlesbrough will reunite him with good friend and former Columbus Crew teammate Aidan Morris, who signed with the Championship side in June 2024.
Berhalter has made 18 appearances for the USMNT and scored two goals, including one against Türkiye during the group stage last month. His experience in the international arena could be a valuable asset to Middlesbrough as they push for promotion to the Premier League.
Middlesbrough has spent the majority of the past 16 seasons in the Championship, with their most recent promotion attempt ending in defeat to Hull City at Wembley Stadium. The EFL expelled Southampton from the playoff final after a member of the Southampton staff was found to have spied on a Middlesbrough training session.
Berhalter's move to Middlesbrough will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike, particularly given his experience with the USMNT. The 25-year-old's ability to adapt to the Championship and potentially lead Middlesbrough to promotion will be a key factor in determining the success of his transfer.
Source: Yahoo Sports