Tim Howard is set to become a member of the Colorado Rapids, according to an ESPN report.
The longtime U.S. national team and Everton FC goalkeeper would join the Rapids in July after finishing the English Premier League season, and would earn about $2 million annually with a contract running through 2019, according to the report, which cites “multiple sources.”
Both Howard’s agent and the Rapids declined to comment Saturday. The Denver Post reported last week that Rapids president Tim Hinchey traveled to London amid the Howard rumblings.
Should the move become official, it would be the most lucrative and highest profile in franchise history. The Rapids would pay Everton a transfer fee between $600,000 and $750,000, according to the report, and Howard’s annual salary would make him the highest-paid goalkeeper in MLS, according to 2015 figures released by the MLS players union.
The 6-foot-3 ‘keeper, who turns 37 on opening day, was the starting U.S. goalie in the 2010 and 2014 World Cups. He set a World Cup record with 15 saves in a 2014 match against Belgium. The U.S. was eliminated in the game, but Howard’s performance inspired an Internet sensation. Doctored images of Howard saving anything and everything flooded social media.
A book deal followed, and Howard’s memoir “The Keeper” became a New York Times Bestseller.
The Rapids were last in MLS in attendance in 2015. Coming off back-to-back disappointing seasons, Colorado has pushed to find relevancy, not only in MLS but in the crowded Denver sports market.
This move accomplishes that goal, but in a position where the Rapids were fairly solid in 2015. Goalkeeper Clint Irwin — an all-star in 2015 — was dealt away this offseason after reports surfaced linking Colorado with the Everton keeper.
Everton manager Roberto Martinez announced earlier this month Howard would serve as backup to Joel Robles.
Howard’s international experience commands immediate respect and he’s well known for his ability to organize the defense.
Howard is still in the mix with the U.S. national team. Earlier this month, coach Jurgen Klinsmann said either Howard or goalkeeper Brad Guzan would get the start in the team’s upcoming World Cup qualifying match against Guatemala in March.
With the likelihood that Howard will be called to the national team for World Cup qualifying matches and the Copa América Centenario tournament this summer, goalkeeper Zac MacMath still should see a number of starts this season.
Daniel Boniface: 303-954-1104, dboniface@denverpost.com or @danielboniface
Tim Howard’s highlights:
Made MLS debut in 1998, a 4-1 win over the Rapids.
Appeared in 96 games for NY/NJ Metrostars.
2001 MLS goalkeeper of the year.
Transferred to Manchester United in 2003 for reported $4 million fee.
Appeared in 77 games for Man United, winning 2004 FA Cup
Loaned to Everton in 2006, and transferred permanently in 2007.
Appeared in more than 400 games for Everton.
Appeared in 100 games for the U.S. national team.
Played in 2010, 2014 World Cups.
Set World Cup record with 15 saves in a match against Belgium in 2014.
