Liga MX outfit Chivas have signed US men’s national team forward Cade Cowell from San Jose Earthquakes in a record transfer fee for the Western Conference club.

Cowell departs San Jose after making over 100 appearances for the first team at just 20 years old, having risen through the ranks at the Western Conference club as a homegrown player. The Ceres, California native registered 12 goals and 12 assists in all competitions for the Earthquakes in his five seasons at the club.

To sign Cowell, Chivas shelled out $4m to San Jose, who have inserted a sell-on clause in the deal.

“We want to thank Cade for everything he has given to the San Jose Earthquakes,” San Jose general manager Chris Leitch said in a release.

“To be able to witness firsthand his exponential growth and development as a player and person both on and off the field over the years has been an absolute joy. He’s made an indelible impression on the club and we wish him and his family nothing but success in his next chapter.”

In 2023, Cowell amassed just one goal and three assists in MLS, Leagues Cup, and US Open Cup play. The move to Liga MX comes just a couple of weeks after Cowell obtained a Mexican passport, a potential sign that a transfer was on the cards.

Chivas haven’t been the only interested club in Cowell’s services, as San Jose reportedly rejected offers from Serie A side Bologna and and Ligue 1 outfit Reims.

“I’m very thankful for everyone at the Earthquakes, from the coaching staff to the fans, for being there for me and my family every step of the way,” Cowell said.

“You’ve watched me grow up from my first days in the Quakes Academy and helped push and inspire me to have the success I’ve enjoyed as a homegrown player. We’ve shared so many great memories and I’ve built so many lifelong friends that you’ll always have a special place in my heart.”

Cowell has managed eight appearances for the USMNT since making his debut in December 2021, scoring one goal and adding one assist with recent experience at the 2023 Gold Cup.

Cowell won’t be the only MLS player to join Chivas this window, though. Former LA Galaxy forward and El Tri legend Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez is expected to sign for his boyhood club alongside Cowell.