Red Bull sign Julián Bazán

Red Bull New York are finalizing details on the signing of Colombian Under-20 international Julián Andrés Bazán Medina from Deportivo Pereira. The Colombian club is going through an economic crisis, and the injection of funds fro

m the MLS club should help in that regard.

The transfer, which is being reported to be for 1.1 million dollars, according to Felipe Sierra of @DiarioASColombia, will help the club economically but will leave a big hole on defense for Arturo Reyes side. Bazán began his career with

Deportivo Pereira in 2024 and has gone on to appear in 27 matches with the top flight side, including starting the 7 first matches of the 2026 campaign. He is regarded as one of the more promising young defenders in Colombian football. The 6’ 0 Bazán began his career as a defensive midfielder before moving to the center of the defense. The center-back is known for his aerial presence, and passing accuracy. He also has shown discipline in the back as he only received one yellow card in 7 matches during the current 2026 Apertura season.

Bazán has been a prominent member of Colombia’s Under-20 National Team, making over 20 appearances at that level. He was a key starter in the side that finished third in the 2025 Under-20 World Cup. His performances in the tournament led to interest from various European clubs, including Monaco in the French Ligue 1. It was reported that he was close to joining Monaco in January but the move fell through.

Red Bull New York had been looking to bolster its center-back position after parting ways with three center backs in the offseason. Sean Nealis was traded to rival DC United, while Alexander Hack was let go, and during pre-season Noah Eile was sold to English Championship side Bristol City. Those moves left the club with only two natural center backs, Robert Voloder who was signed from Sporting Kansas City, and the returning veteran Tim Parker.

The Red Bulls have fared well in the two matches to start the MLS campaign, only allowing just 1 goal. Justin Che, a natural right-back, who was acquired in the offseason from Brondby, has formed a partnership in the back with Dylan Nealis another natural right-back. While the two have some experience at center-back, a fully integrated Bazán is expected to eventually occupy one of the two spots at center-back. This will allow one of the two to return to their natural position.

Besides filling a position of need for the team, this is also a good economic move for the club. Bazán is already regarded as future talent in Europe, and with experience and development at the Major League Soccer level, it wouldn’t be a surprise if the young Colombian sees joining the Red Bulls as part of his progression into European football.