Sporting Kansas City has finalized a deal to bring defender Justin Reynolds into their squad, completing a trade with the Chicago Fire. This transaction includes Sporting KC providing the Fire with a third-round selection in the 2028 MLS SuperDraft, along with a sum of up to $100,000 in general allocation funds. Furthermore, the agreement stipulates that should Reynolds be transferred to an organization outside of Major League Soccer in the future, the Chicago Fire will be entitled to a portion of that transfer fee.
Reynolds, at 21 years old, is a product of the Chicago Fire's youth academy system, having advanced through their ranks to sign with the first team on January 1, 2023. During the 2023-24 season, he also gained international experience playing for FC Lugano, Chicago's affiliated club in the Swiss Super League. His tenure with the Fire saw him participate in 12 MLS matches, including two starts, and he notably scored one goal—a crucial game-winner against Inter Miami CF on September 30, 2025, which secured the Fire's first postseason berth since 2017. His earlier achievements include being a key member of the Fire's U-19 Academy team that triumphed in the inaugural MLS NEXT Championship in 2021. Chicago Fire head coach and director of football Gregg Berhalter extended his gratitude to Reynolds, commending his dedication and growth during his time with the club.
This strategic acquisition by Sporting Kansas City demonstrates their commitment to strengthening their defensive line with promising talent, while also reflecting the dynamic nature of player movements within professional soccer. Reynolds' journey from a local academy product to a professional player, contributing to significant team milestones, underscores the value of youth development programs in fostering future stars. His continued progression in the sport will undoubtedly be a source of inspiration for aspiring young athletes.