New York Red Bulls sell Matt Miazga to Chelsea

All week fans of the New York Red Bulls have been waiting for the news that Matt Miazga was leaving to become official. Today, it was announced that the team sold the homegrown defender to Chelsea of the Barclay's Premiere League.

The announcement did not indicate what fee Chelsea paid for the New Jersey native, but reports put the price tag at $5 million.

"It is a bittersweet day for the New York Red Bulls," said Sporting Director Ali Curtis. "We are very happy for Matt to get the opportunity but it is tough to see him leave after coming through our academy to the first team - there is a different feel when one of your homegrown players leaves," Curtis continued. "We tried everything we could to keep Matt but we understand and respect his desire to play in Europe. Moving forward, we'll either reinforce the team from within our existing player pool or we will acquire a player from the international market. Additionally, the proceeds of this transfer provide us with greater resources to put back into our youth system."

"We will cheer for Matt from Red Bull Arena. He will always be a part of our family and we wish him the best," Curtis added.

Miazga was signed as a Homegrown product in May of 2013. In 38 career appearances with the Red Bulls, Miazga made 34 starts over his three years with New York. His lone MLS goal came in the victory at Yankee Stadium vs. NYCFC in 2015.

"I am forever grateful for my time at Red Bull for providing me with the opportunity to grow and develop into the player I am today," said Miazga. "My experiences there have helped me fulfill my lifelong goal along with the support of my family, friends, and God.

"It was a dream come true to sign my first professional contract with my hometown club," Miazga continued. "I want to say thank you to the entire New York Red Bulls organization including all of my coaches, teammates and staff that were there with me during my time with the club."

"This is an exciting day for Matt and his family," said Red Bulls head coach Jesse Marsch. "This is a testament to our academy system to develop players capable of competing with the best players in the world and we are proud of what Matt has accomplished. It was a pleasure coaching him this past year and we wish him well."