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Crew Make Low Risk Addition In Aliyu Ibrahim

In a low-risk move aimed at bolstering their attack, Columbus Crew has acquired forward Aliyu Ibrahim from Houston Dynamo. This transfer enhances the Crew's offensive options while maintaining financial prudence.
ByIvan Davis|
Feb 22, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Dynamo FC forward Ibrahim Aliyu (18) in action during the match against FC Dallas at Shell Energy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Feb 22, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Dynamo FC forward Ibrahim Aliyu (18) in action during the match against FC Dallas at Shell Energy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images | Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The Columbus Crew made a move just before the transfer deadline last week by acquiring Ibrahim Aliyu from Houston Dynamo. This transfer is expected to add attacking depth to the Crew's squad as an option off the bench.

The deal was finalized under the new cash-for-player structure worth $450,000 with up to $750,000 in additional performance based incentives. The low cash value with large incentive portion gives the Crew flexibility as Aliyu finds his role with his new team.

The cash-for-player mechanism dictates that the Crew acquired Aliyu contract as-is meaning Aliyu will occupy a U-22 Initiative roster slot and is under contract through 2025 with team options for 2026 & 2027. This gives the Crew the ability to part ways with Aliyu with little risk if need be after this season.

The young forward, has shown flashes of potential during his time at Houston Dynamo. His speed, agility, and ability to create scoring opportunities could make him an asset for Columbus Crew that will stretch the field.

Ibrahim made an appearance in each of Houston's 34 games last season and scored 6 goals, off of 67 shots, with a shot accuracy of 40.3%.

Aliyu also contributed with 4 assists and finished the season with an average of 0.31 Goal Creating Actions per 90 minutes (GCA90). To put that into perspective, Steven Moreira and Dylan Chambost have a GCA90 of 0.32 and 0.31 respectively so far this season.

Ibrahim's arrival is expected to enhance the Crew's attacking depth. With JRR's recent struggle finishing chances on full display in the last two matches, it is evident the Crew needed to do something to push attacking players to perform. With a solid defense already in place, Ibrahim's addition could help to unlock more goals and secure more victories.

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