Colorado Rapids midfielder Cole Bassett is set to join Portland Timbers in a deal worth up to $3.7 million, according to sources briefed on the situation. The transfer fee is $2.65 million with $1.05 million in add-ons, bringing the total to $3.7 million.

What happened?

The Portland Timbers are finalizing the deal to acquire Bassett, who will join the team via the U-22 initiative.

Why it matters for Colorado Rapids

Bassett's departure will give the Rapids flexibility to address other positions in the roster. The team has a cadre of midfielders, including Connor Ronan, Josh Atencio, and Hamzat Ojediran.

What comes next?

The Rapids will be deeper in the midfield behind club-record signing Paxten Aaronson in attacking midfield. As of June 28, 2026, the Rapids are 11th in Major League Soccer, with 41 points from 34 games, and a recent form of DLDLW. | Category | Stat | | --- | --- | | League Standing | 11th | | Points | 41 | | Games | 34 | | Recent Form | DLDLW | | Goals Scored | 44 | | Goals Conceded | 56 | | Goal Difference | -12 | The Rapids' next fixture is against San Diego on August 23, 2026, away from home. Bassett, 24, made 172 appearances for the Rapids between two stints, scoring at least five goals in four MLS appearances, including the pandemic-shortened 2020 season.