Minnesota United FC has acquired goalkeeper Drake Callender from Charlotte FC in exchange for $450,000 in guaranteed General Allocation Money, the club announced Monday. The 28-year-old U.S. international brings championship experience and MLS pedigree to the Loons’ goalkeeping corps.
The transaction includes $350,000 in GAM for 2026 and $100,000 for 2027, with Charlotte eligible to receive up to an additional $300,000 in conditional payments based on performance metrics. Charlotte also retained a percentage of any future transfer fee or trade value should Minnesota move Callender down the line.
Callender spent the 2025 season with Charlotte FC after previously starring for Inter Miami CF, where he won the 2023 Leagues Cup and 2024 Supporters’ Shield alongside Lionel Messi and company. His resume also includes multiple appearances with the U.S. Men’s National Team in 2023 and 2024.
\”Drake brings winning experience and a strong understanding of Major League Soccer to our club,\” said Khaled El-Ahmad, Minnesota United’s Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director. \”He has proven himself as a consistent shot-stopper and a leader on the back line.\”
Callender expressed enthusiasm about the move to the Twin Cities. \”I’m extremely excited to join Minnesota United FC and be a part of a growing club that has big ambitions,\” he said.
The acquisition addresses Minnesota’s goalkeeping needs as the club prepares for the 2026 MLS season.
