US national team goalkeeper Tim Howard appears ready to return stateside.
Not only are the Colorado Rapids interested in signing the Everton starter, as was reported earlier this month, the interest is also mutual, according to a report from ESPN FC.
Citing unnamed sources, the report said “discussions are ongoing and positive” and Howard is looking to return to MLS. The Rapids are at the top of the league allocation order, meaning they would get first dibs on a player of Howard’s pedigree (select USMNT player).
Despite reports the Rapids were targeting the New Jersey native, Everton manager Roberto Martinez told reporters this week that no offer had been made. Now it appears only a matter of time.
The 36-year-old Howard has been a key presence within the USMNT and rose to pop-culture prominence after a jaw-dropping, 16-save performance in the 2014 World Cup against Belgium.
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He has played for Everton since the 2006-07 season, accumulating more than 400 appearances for the Toffees. He started his career in MLS with the New York/New Jersey MetroStars in 1998, before signing with Manchester United midseason in 2003.
Colorado have been looking to bolster their talent and star power after finishing last in the Western Conference. The Rapids went after USMNT midfielder Alejandro Bedoya, but Nantes refused to allow a transfer.
The Rapids are also reportedly close to landing Mexico forward Alan Pulido on a one-year loan from Olympiacos.
