Altidore, Villarreal Deal Close

According to one U.S. source familiar with the situation, Red Bulls forward Jozy Altidore is on the verge of completing a move to Spanish club Villarreal. The paperwork is being finalized, I am told, and the transfer is likely to be announced in a couple of days.

MLS had rejected overseas offers of $8 million in recent months and was seeking $10 million for the 18-year forward.

Villareal first expressed interest last year, following Altidore's performance at the Under-20 World Cup in Canada. Other clubs, including Reading, joined the pursuit, but it appears Villarreal has won out and will pay MLS the largest transfer fee in league history. A Spanish media report indicated he will be loaned to Huelva.

Assuming the deal is completed.....

Good place for a young forward? Good transaction for MLS and the Red Bulls?