Austin FC acquired winger Jayden Nelson from the Vancouver Whitecaps on Thursday in exchange for $1.25 million in general allocation money and a 2026 first-round draft pick.

The Whitecaps will receive $700,000 in 2026 and $550,000 in 2027. Vancouver also retains a percentage for future trade or transfer fees for the 23-year-old Canadian. The draft pick is the No. 17 overall selection.

Nelson recorded three goals and 11 assists in 40 appearances across all competitions in his lone season with the Whitecaps in 2025. He helped them win a Canadian Championship and reach the MLS Cup final.

“First and foremost, we are extremely grateful to Jayden for his time at the club. He played a key role in our historic season, and we wish him every success in the next chapter of his career,” Vancouver sporting director Axel Schuster said. “This move ultimately benefits all parties. It gives Jayden an excellent opportunity to earn regular minutes and continue pursuing his dream of playing a World Cup on home soil.”

An Ontario native, Nelson came up through the Toronto FC academy and tallied one goal and three assists in 45 MLS matches (29 starts) with Toronto from 2020-22.

Internationally, he has scored two goals in 11 appearances for Canada as he eyes a spot on the 2026 FIFA World Cup roster.

Nelson will occupy senior and international designations on the Austin FC roster.

–Field Level Media