Fire acquire D Joel Waterman from CF Montreal

Field Level Media|published: 08/20/2025, 12:17pm EDT

Aug 1, 2025; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; CF Montreal defender Joel Waterman (16) controls the ball during the first half against Toluca FC at Sports Illustrated Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The Chicago Fire acquired veteran defender Joel Waterman from CF Montreal on Wednesday, both clubs announced.

In exchange for the 29-year-old Canadian center back, Montreal receives up to $600,000 in general allocation money.

Waterman tallied five goals and seven assists in 158 appearances across all competitions for Montreal since 2020.

"Joel's experience at both the international level and in MLS will be a valuable asset to the team as we build for the future," said Chicago director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter.

"His competitive nature and leadership qualities will have an immediate impact in this final stretch of the season. We look forward to welcoming Joel to Chicago."

Waterman, who has earned 10 caps with Canada, helped Montreal win the 2021 Canadian Championship.

Montreal receives a guaranteed $500,000 in GAM -- $200,000 in 2025 and $300,000 in 2026 -- plus up to $100,000 in conditional GAM.

--Field Level Media