D.C. United acquire M Caden Clark from CF Montreal

Field Level Media|published: 08/21/2025, 11:17am EDT

Jul 9, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; CF Montreal midfielder Caden Clark (23) plays the ball against Forge FC Hamilton midfielder Alexander Achinioti-Jonsson (13) during the first half at Stade Saputo. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

D.C. United acquired midfielder Caden Clark from CF Montreal, both clubs announced on Thursday.

In exchange, Montreal receives up to $800,000 in a cash-for-player trade and retains a sell-on percentage.

Clark, 22, joins D.C. as a U22 Initiative player and is under contract through 2025 with options for 2026-27.

"Caden is a proven talent in this league who will strengthen our midfield," said Ally Mackay, D.C. United's general manager and chief soccer officer. "At 22, he already has extensive MLS experience, and we're looking forward to integrating him with the group."

Clark recorded six assists in 26 MLS matches (17 starts) this season with Montreal.

"We would first like to thank Caden for his contribution to the club over the past year in Montréal. We wish him the best for the rest of his career," said Luca Saputo, Montreal's senior director of recruitment and sports methodology. "This transaction is part of our sports strategy and gives us additional flexibility in this transfer window."

A U.S. international, Clark has 11 goals and 18 assists in 105 career MLS matches (59 starts) with New York Red Bulls (2020-22), Minnesota United (2024) and Montreal (2024-25).

--Field Level Media