Deal could reach $1m
Ligue 1 side Stade Reims have signed talented center-back Kobi Henry. The 18-year-old center-back joins Reims from USL Championship side Orange County SC in what is a new league record transfer. ESPN reported that the initial fee is $700,000, plus bonuses that could see the deal eventually reach $1 million overall. The base fee alone makes it the most expensive transfer in USL Championship history (overview). The deal will go through on July 1 when the transfer window opens in Europe.
“Kobi’s signature is a big step forward for our project,” Stade de Reims sporting director Pol-Edouard Caillot said in a club statement. “Reims has become one of the most attractive clubs for young players – we are the team where young players get the most playing time in Europe. Kobi will continue to grow and develop his skills in a good environment.”
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Henry, who is an Orlando City and Inter Miami CF academy product, has managed seven appearances across all competitions for Orange County this season (one goal). The 18-year-old has also featured in five games for the US men’s national team youth program (no goals). The center-back also received a significant bump in his market value in the recent USL Championship update jumping from $55,000 to $220,000.
OFFICIAL: Orange County SC has transferred 18-year-old defender Kobi Henry to Stade de Reims in Ligue 1.
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— Orange County SC (@orangecountysc) June 14, 2022
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