St. Louis City nearing record deal for Rapids’ Rafael Navarro

St. Louis City is closing in on a significant deal to acquire Brazilian forward Rafael Navarro from the Colorado Rapids. Sources indicate the transfer fee is expected to be around $12 million, which would establish a new record for a deal between two MLS clubs.

While the broad terms of the agreement are in place, the clubs are currently working through the final details to complete the trade. If a resolution is not reached within the next 24 hours, the 26-year-old forward will remain available for the Rapids' upcoming match against Real Salt Lake.

St. Louis has identified Navarro as their primary summer target as they undergo a squad overhaul under head coach Yoann Damet. The club views him as the ideal profile to lead their attacking line. Navarro has been a model of consistency in MLS over the last three seasons, recording 11 goals and five assists so far this campaign.

For Colorado, the departure allows for a major restructuring of their attack. The fee would provide the club with $3 million in General Allocation Money (GAM) and free up a Designated Player spot, enabling them to pursue further reinforcements in the market.