Dániel Gazdag Joins Columbus Crew Amid Contract Dispute

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Crew officially announced the signing of Dániel Gazdag on Friday, after clearing the necessary paperwork for the transaction from the Philadelphia Union. The Crew secured the star attacking midfielder for a $4 million transfer fee, with the potential for an additional $500,000 in performance-related incentives.

At his introductory press conference, Gazdag expressed his excitement to join a club with a rich history of titles. “It makes me very happy that I’m playing for a club that is actually playing for titles,” he said. However, Gazdag was candid about his preference to remain in Philadelphia if circumstances had permitted. “I enjoyed it a lot. It would have been nice to stay there for the rest of my career,” he noted.

This transfer came amidst ongoing contract negotiations, as Gazdag and his agent sought a substantially increased salary from his current pay of $1.757 million. This season marks the final guaranteed year of his contract, with an option for the 2026 season held by the Union. Talks for a new deal began during the offseason, but Union sporting director Ernst Tanner was not willing to meet the demands Gazdag’s side proposed.

“Since joining the Union, he has been an integral part of the team’s success,” Tanner stated. “We are deeply grateful for everything he has done for the organization. At this time, we believe this move is in the best interest of both the club and the player.” Tanner emphasized that the funds from Gazdag’s transfer would allow the Union to invest further in their roster while providing opportunities for younger players.

Columbus general manager Issa Tall remarked on Gazdag’s immediate impact once he became available. “The second we were aware of his availability, he was a no-brainer,” Tall said. The Crew previously funded the transfer through the sale of forward Juan “Cucho” Hernández to Spain’s Real Betis earlier this year.

Describing the rapid progression of the move, Gazdag mentioned that he learned of Columbus’s interest just a week prior to his confirmation. “Everything actually happened really fast,” he said. “When my agent first told me that the Crew was interested in me, I got very excited.”

Gazdag also acknowledged the Crew’s achievements, which include victories in the 2020 and 2023 MLS Cups, as well as last year’s Leagues Cup. “Since I’m in the league, they won so many major titles,” he stated. “It makes me proud to join a club like the Columbus Crew.” Gazdag looks forward to contributing to the team’s success and hopes for a new contract soon.

When discussing upcoming matches against his former team, Gazdag shared a sentiment of respect. “It will be very emotional to play in Philadelphia,” he said, referring to their scheduled meetings on May 10 and June 29. “I owe it to the club and the fans. I hope the fans will welcome me back with open arms.”

Meanwhile, the Union are focusing on their current roster rather than an immediate high-profile replacement for Gazdag. Tanner indicated that they are evaluating existing players, including Quinn Sullivan and Indiana Vassilev, before making further moves. “We want to see how that plays out,” he noted. “There is always a chance for somebody going in when someone is going out.” Should the opportunity arise in the summer transfer window, Tanner affirmed that they would consider adding new talent as needed.