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Columbus Crew SC trades Michael Parkhurst to Atlanta United

Columbus Crew SC traded defender Michael Parkhurst to Major League Soccer expansion side Atlanta United on Sunday.

Parkhurst, 32, moved in exchange for general allocation money during the MLS half-day trade window, having captained the club for three seasons.

"We want to thank Michael for his contributions on and off the field over the last three seasons with Crew SC," sporting director and head coach Gregg Berhalter said.

"Michael served admirably as the club's captain and his efforts as a part of the 2015 Eastern Conference Championship team will always have a place in Black & Gold history."

Atlanta United has been preparing for its inaugural season with a busy weekend and may be looking for players with MLS experience in Tuesday's expansion draft.

In addition to Parkhurst, Atlanta also acquired Romario Williams from Montreal, Kevin Kratz from Philadelphia, Harrison Heath from Orlando City SC, and general and targeted allocation money from New York City FC.

Atlanta United also obtained an international spot for the 2017 and 2018 seasons from Colorado Rapids, in exchange for its natural second-round selection in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft.