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Adelaide United can advise an agreement has been reached with Major League Soccer side Charlotte FC over the transfer of Riley McGree for an undisclosed fee.
McGree joins the new expansion team due to compete in 2022 and, as a result, will immediately be loaned to Birmingham City.
The 21-year-old returned to the Reds at the start of last season and experienced a sensational campaign, winning silverware and individual accolades.
McGree scored three goals in Adelaide’s successful FFA Cup 2019 campaign, including one in the Final, to help the Reds lift the trophy for a record third time.
In the A-League, McGree netted 10 goals and notched five assists in 23 matches to be named the Aurelio Vidmar Club Champion and A-League Young Footballer of the Year.
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Speaking on his decision to leave the Club, McGree said: “I can’t thank Adelaide United enough.
“I was welcomed back home with open arms and the Club have supported my ambition from the start.
“It was disappointing not to make finals after we did so well after the COVID break, but I have no doubt the Club is moving in the right direction.
“For me, my goal has always been to push myself and my football and to have the chance to head overseas and to be doing that is very exciting.
“Adelaide will always be my home and I wish the boys and the Club the best for the future.”
Adelaide United Director of Football, Bruce Djite, said: “On the day we announced Riley, I said: ‘I hope he finds his way back overseas,’ and today I’m glad he has his chance again.
“Riley had an outstanding season last year and has been rightfully rewarded for his hard work and performances.
“It is always difficult when one of the Club’s best talents departs and Riley will be very difficult to replace.
“However, when players have hunger and desire to play at the highest level – and they get that opportunity – we, as a Club, will always look to support them.
“We wish Riley well for this next phase of his career; he certainly has all the attributes to make a significant impact abroad.”
