NASHVILLE, TN - Nashville SC announced Tuesday the acquisition of Walker Zimmerman from Los Angeles FC in a league-record deal, sending up to $1.25 million and a 2020 international roster spot to LAFC in exchange for the center back.
Zimmerman, 26, has made 165 appearances in all competitions since being drafted by FC Dallas in 2013. LAFC acquired the defender in 2017, where he became a mainstay of the expansion side. The center back was was named to the 2019 MLS All-Star team and Best XI, in addition to winning the Supporter’s Shield in 2015 and 2019 and the US Open Cup in 2016.
“Walker Zimmerman is a player who we had our sights on when we first started to assemble this group, and we are very excited to add his on and off field abilities and leadership to our roster,” said General Manager Mike Jacobs in the club’s press release. “He has proven success at the domestic and national team levels and fits the mold of the kind of player and person that our club represents.”
“In his two seasons in Los Angeles, Walker was a consummate professional and a great leader on and off the field,” said LAFC EVP & GM John Thorrington. “He and his wife Sally played an integral role within the LAFC family and community, and he will always be a part of our history. On behalf of the Club, we wish Walker and his family nothing but the best in his future.”
Zimmerman has been a regular member of US Men’s National Team squads since his first cap in 2017 and has appeared 12 times for his national side. He started for the USMNT on February 1 against a Costa Rica side that included Nashville SC’s Randall Leal.
With Zimmerman, Nashville SC’s roster stands at 25 players. The Boys In Gold will begin their 2020 campaign against Atlanta United on February 29.
