Red Bulls Close In on Ethan Horvath Deal as Goalkeeper Overhaul Continues
The New York Red Bulls are closing in on a deal to sign U.S. international goalkeeper Ethan Horvath from Cardiff City, as the club continues reshaping its squad ahead of the upcoming MLS season.
Horvath’s arrival would fill a major gap in goal following Carlos Coronel’s departure and provide immediate experience to a side beginning a new chapter under head coach Michael Bradley.
The Athletic first reported New York’s interest, with sources confirming that discussions are advancing around either a loan or permanent transfer. The move would mark Horvath’s first appearance in MLS after a lengthy European career.
The timing is significant for a Red Bulls team undergoing structural change. Bradley’s appointment has ushered in a new direction, and securing a reliable goalkeeper is viewed internally as a priority after Coronel left upon the expiration of his contract.
Horvath brings a substantial European résumé. The 30 year old spent the first half of the season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, making 16 Championship appearances before returning to Cardiff City in January. Across spells with Cardiff, Sheffield Wednesday, Luton Town, and Nottingham Forest, he has accumulated 97 appearances in English football.
Before his move to England, Horvath established himself at Club Brugge, where he made 64 appearances and featured regularly in domestic title races and European competition. His consistency at that level helped shape his reputation as a dependable presence between the posts.
Internationally, Horvath has earned 10 caps for the U.S. men’s national team since debuting in 2016. His defining moment came in 2021, when his penalty shootout heroics against Mexico in Denver helped the United States secure their first Nations League title.
The match atmosphere during that final highlighted his composure under pressure, a trait New York value as they transition into a younger, rebalanced squad. Horvath’s calm distribution and shot stopping ability are seen as assets suited to Bradley’s preferred style.
Key moments throughout his career underline that reliability. From crucial saves in the Championship to high stakes international fixtures, Horvath has repeatedly delivered when called upon, even amid defensive instability.
If finalized, the move would cap another step in a broader roster overhaul. New York have already added winger Cade Cowell, center back Robert Voloder, and right back Justin Che, while long serving contributors Daniel Edelman, Peter Stroud, Sean Nealis, and Coronel have departed.
With preseason approaching, the Red Bulls are intent on settling their core spine early. Landing Horvath would signal a clear commitment to stability at the back as the club looks to reestablish itself as a contender in the new MLS campaign.