Tim Howard could be coming home soon.
Howard is in talks over a potential transfer from Everton to Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids, NBC’s Joe Prince-Wright reported Tuesday, and ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle reported Wednesday, citing sources with knowledge of the situation. If the move comes to fruition, Howard would end his European soccer career after 13 years and return stateside for the final stage of his storied career.
In the most likely scenario, Howard, 36, would sign with Colorado this month but remain with Everton until the end of the 2015-16 season, according to Carlisle and Prince-Wright. Howard then would join Colorado in May — nearly three months into the 2016 MLS season.
Colorado reportedly is willing to pay Howard an annual salary of between $2 million and $3 million, making him the highest-paid goalkeeper in MLS.
Such an offer could tempt Howard away from Everton, a club he has represented for the last decade. His contract with Everton expires after the 2017-18 season, but the Toffees could be willing to allow him to join Colorado on a free transfer.
Howard previously played three seasons with Manchester United, following his transfer from the New York/New Jersey MetroStars (currently the New York Red Bulls) in 2003.
Howard said in 2014 he had no intention of returning to MLS. Instead he wanted to retire after running down his Everton contract and playing for the United States at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Less than two years later, it seems Howard’s plans have changed.
Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@ESPNFC
