Columbus Crew part ways with midfielder Daniel Gazdag

Daniel Gazdag's tenure with the Crew is over.

The Dispatch has confirmed a report by the Athletic that Gazdag's contract, which runs through 2027, is being bought out by the Crew to make him a free agent. The Athletic report says Gazdag , 30, is finalizing a deal to join the New England Revolution.

New England plays the Crew on Aug. 30 at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, and it's unknown whether Gazdag will be available for the Revolution.

The Dispatch has also confirmed a separate report by The Athletic saying the Crew are in advanced talks to sign Uruguayan attacking midfielder Santi Rodriguez from Botafago of Brazil's Serie A. Rodriguez would fill the designated player spot opened by Gazdag's departure.

Gazdag's tenure with the Crew was largely underwhelming after he was acquired for $4 million in a cash-for-player trade April 9, 2025 with the Philadelphia Union. The Hungarian midfielder left Philadelphia as the Union's franchise leader in goals (59) while also leading the club in all-time winning goals (14).

Prior to his exit, Gazdag filled one of the Crew's three designated player spots along with recently acquired forward Brais Mendez and forward Wessam Abou Ali , who's out for the season after surgery to repair an ACL tear.