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Just as the MLS summer transfer window comes to close, the Fire pulled of a move to acquire defender Joel Waterman from CF Montréal.
Transaction: Chicago Fire FC acquires defender Joel Waterman from CF Montréal for $200,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) in 2025 and $300,000 in GAM in 2026. Additionally, Montreal could receive an extra $100,000 in GAM if certain parameters are met.
Waterman, known for his durability (started in 125 out of 130 matches for Montreal). He wore the captain’s armband on several occasions for both Montreal and for the Canadian Men’s National Team.
“Joel’s experience at both the international level and In MLS will be a valuable asset to the team as we build for the future,” said Chicago Fire FC Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter. “His competitive nature and leadership qualities will have an immediate impact in this final stretch of the season. We look forward to welcoming Joel to Chicago.”
The price was wasn’t cheap (no pun intended), the Fire are giving up significan GAM in 2025 and in 2026. This is a move you make when you are convinced you are getting an immediate starter and impact player.
The Fire have had a rotating door on the back line. Whether through inconsistent play or injuries, the only mainstain on it has been Jack Elliott. With the recent return of Carlos Teran and the addition of Waterman, a weakness can turn into one of the team’s strengths.
THOUGHTS:
I like this addition of Joel Waterman. It’s not the flashiest acquisition, but it’s one that will pay dividends, but in the short and long term. At 29, Waterman should still have plenty of left in the tank. He’s an experienced MLS veteran and has played at the international level. This is the kinda signing Gregg Berhalter has been making since taking over he Fire, adding accomplished vets in their prime, with experience in the MLS and/or overseas.
Waterman should be a linchpin that helps stabilize the defense. As mentioned above, lots of allocation money is being sent to Montreal, so it wasn’t a cheap acquisition. If it was a loan type deal for the rest of the season, then I’d be more skeptical, but this is a longer-term investment and a player that likely will be part of the core moving forward.
The additions of Andres Franco and Waterman should add much needed help to positions of need, but also to claim a playoff spot.
