Revolution trade Lee Nguyen to LAFC

The New England Revolution have traded Lee Nguyen to LAFC for $700,000 in allocation money, though that number could increase to $950,000 under the deal’s condition. The Revs could also receive LAFC’s natural first-round pick in the 2019 or 2020 MLS SuperDraft.

Nguyen, 31, has reportedly been asking to be traded for over a year. When nothing materialized, the star midfielder initially refused to report to this year’s preseason training camp. Nguyen ultimately linked up with the club, but he never made the bench, let alone an appearance. Nguyen’s role as the No. 10 was filled Diego Fagundez.

“On behalf of the club, I’d like to thank Lee for his years of service,” said Revolution General Manager Michael Burns. “Every decision is made in the best interest of the club, and we feel this move helps strengthen our team now and puts us in the best position to succeed in years to come.”

Nguyen leaves the Revolution having collected 51 goals and 49 assists in 191 appearances. The U.S. international joined the club in 2012 after being waived by the Vancouver Whitecaps. He was one of the most productive players in Revs history, with his best season coming in 2014 when he scored 18 goals and was named as a league MVP candidate.

The trade brings the Nguyen saga to an end while giving the Revs some money ahead of the summer transfer window. The Revolution will receive $350,000 in General Allocation Money and $350,000 in Targeted Allocation Money, with the possibility of more resources coming later.