TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Loan
Austin FC have acquired midfielder Sebastian Berhalter on loan from Columbus Crew SC, the club announced Wednesday. Austin have the option to trade for Berhalter at the end of the season.
Berhalter, 19, completed his first professional season in 2020 with the MLS Cup champion Crew. He made nine appearances, including four starts. He is a US youth international and spent one season playing for the University of North Carolina, making 19 appearances for the college powerhouse.
“Sebastian is a young and talented midfielder who will add depth to our growing roster,” Austin sporting director Claudio Reyna said in a club statement. “We are excited to have him join the club and look forward for his continued professional development with Austin FC.”
Austin FC head coach Josh Wolff was previously an assistant coach in Columbus. The midfielder is the son of US national team and former Crew head coach Gregg Berhalter.
The younger Berhalter adds another defensive midfielder behind Alex Ring, who was acquired by Austin from NYCFC in a blockbuster trade. Austin also used the No. 1 overall selection at the SuperDraft on midfielder Daniel Pereira.
“I’m excited for this new opportunity and looking forward to the challenge,” said Berhalter. “I can’t wait to get started.”
Behind starters Darlington Nagbe and Artur, the Crew still have MLS Cup breakout Aidan Morris and MLS veteran Perry Kitchen as depth.
“As a young player, it is important for Sebastian to get regular minutes to aid his development,” Crew SC President & General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko said. “With Sebastian entering his second year at the professional level, it is vital that we continue to create a path that allows him to obtain more experience. This opportunity gives him a chance to gain valuable MLS time, in a different market, which will help in his growth as a player.”
