CF Montreal paid dearly for its next gem, but the cost may be worth it.
The club acquired American defender Jalen Neal on Monday for $450,000 in general allocation money (GAM) in 2025, $200,000 in GAM in 2026 and a roster spot. international player in 2025. Neal also signed a “U22 Initiative” contract for the 2025, 2026 and 2027 seasons, in addition to an option year in 2028.
“We are delighted to welcome this promising young defender to Montreal,” said CF Montreal President and CEO Gabriel Gervais.
Jalen fits the profile of the modern defender we wanted to add to our team, being technically good, fast and versatile. Despite his young age, he already has significant experience in MLS and on the international scene. We are confident that he will help us defensively this season and for the future.
Gabriel Gervais, president and CEO of CF Montreal
-In fact, the 21-year-old LA Galaxy Academy product already has a rich resume. He won the MLS Cup in 2024, in addition to having accumulated 2,671 minutes in 34 games, including 28 starts, during the 2023 and 2024 seasons with the Galaxy.
CF Montreal also recalls that it appeared twice in the MLS 22 Under 22 rankings, in 14e place in 2023 and in 9e position the following season.
On the international scene, the 6-foot-3, 170-pound Californian has six caps with the United States senior national team. He represented his country at the Gold Cup in 2023. In 2022, he also helped the United States win the Concacaf U20 Championship and was named one of the tournament’s eleven all-stars.
The Initiative 22 contract allows MLS clubs to offer generous terms to promising players aged 22 or younger, without having to count their entire salary on payroll.
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