Crew transfers Lucas Zelarayan to Saudi side Al Fateh

The Saudi Pro League has continued to make major splashes during the summer transfer window and one of Major League Soccer’s premier attacking talents has joined the growing list abroad.

Saudi side Al Fateh has acquired Columbus Crew midfielder Lucas Zelarayán for an undisclosed transfer fee, the Crew announced Monday. The Armenian international joined the Crew in December 2019 from Liga MX club Tigres and proceeded to play a key role for Columbus.

Zelarayan totaled 38 goals and 30 assists in 97 regular season matches for the Crew, eventually winning MLS Cup MVP honors in 2020. He also led the Crew to the Campeones Cup title in 2021.

A two-time MLS All-Star, the 31-year-old scored twice and added one assist in the Crew’s 3-0 MLS Cup Finals victory over the Seattle Sounders in 2020. Zelarayan joined former LAFC winger Cristian Tello in the Crew roster.

“We greatly appreciate everything Lucas has done for the Crew, including his efforts to help us win the MLS Cup, the many memorable moments and goals, and his dedication to the Club and our supporters,” said President and General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. “When we signed Lucas, we knew he would make an immediate impact on our team, our club and our city, and we thank him for being a key contributor to the Club’s recent success and helping launch this new era of the Crew. 

Columbus sits sixth in the Eastern Conference with 36 points earned in 23 matches.

The Crew faces Club America on Monday night in Leagues Cup play.