The Colorado Rapids announced the signing of U.S. men’s national team midfielder Djordje Mihailovic on Monday.

He will occupy a designated player spot on the roster after agreeing to a four-year contract through 2027 with a club option for 2028.

The Rapids will pay a transfer fee above $3 million, setting a franchise record, The Athletic reported.

The 25-year-old returns to MLS from AZ Alkmaar of the Dutch Eredivisie, where he had two goals and two assists in 36 appearances in 2023.

“Djordje is an exciting, skillful player with a proven track record of success in MLS and at the international level,” Rapids president Padraig Smith said. “We are incredibly excited to welcome a player of his caliber and experience to Colorado. Djordje is entering his prime years, and we eagerly anticipate the intensity and boldness he brings, which will undoubtedly make us a more dangerous group.”

Mihailovic recorded 20 goals and 36 assists in 134 MLS matches (102 starts) with the Chicago Fire (2017-20) and CF Montreal (2021-22). He set a Montreal record with 16 assists in 2021.

The Rapids paid $75,000 to FC Cincinnati in 2024 general allocation money to acquire his discovery priority.

Mihailovic has earned 11 caps with the USMNT, including five games at the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup.

“Djordje is a top signing, and this addition is a big statement from our club. His competitive nature and play making ability will immediately make us better as well as help us score goals,” Rapids coach Chris Armas said. “He has the personality and intensity needed to excel with our style of play.”

Also Monday, Colorado also announced the transfer of midfielder Max Alves da Silva, 22, to Cuiaba in Brazil’s top flight. He tallied one goal and one assist in 38 matches (16 starts) with the Rapids from 2022-23.

–Field Level Media