In a landmark move for a rising American soccer star, left back John Tolkin has finalized a transfer from MLS side New York Red Bulls to Bundesliga club Holstein Kiel for a fee of $3 million. The 22-year-old U.S. international departs for Germany after a breakout stint in MLS, aiming to prove his mettle in one of Europe’s top leagues.
Tolkin’s Rapid Rise Leads to Bundesliga
Tolkin burst onto the scene with the Red Bulls in 2021, quickly establishing himself as one of the most exciting young fullbacks in MLS. In his 114 league appearances, the New Jersey native notched an impressive 7 goals and 12 assists, earning widespread plaudits for his dynamic attacking play down the left flank.
That scintillating form caught the eye of U.S. national team coach John Herdman, who handed Tolkin his senior international debut in 2023 and started him in all four matches at the Paris Olympics. And while the USMNT fell short of the podium, Tolkin’s stock continued to rise as he flashed his ability to impact the game at both ends against elite competition.
Kiel Fighting Relegation Adds Extra Pressure
But Tolkin will have his work cut out for him at Holstein Kiel, who are currently battling relegation in their first-ever season in the Bundesliga. Promoted after a surprise 2nd place finish in 2. Bundesliga, Kiel have struggled to find their footing in the top flight, winning just 3 of their first 17 matches to sit 17th in the 18-team league.
Tolkin will be expected to hit the ground running and help shore up a leaky Kiel defense that has conceded a concerning 32 goals to date, second-worst in the division. But if he can translate his MLS form to the rigors of the Bundesliga, the rangy left back could prove a vital addition in the club’s fight for survival.
Jury Still Out on USMNT Left Back Depth
From a USMNT perspective, Tolkin’s move is a welcome sight as Herdman and Co. scour the player pool for left back options to spell premier starter Antonee Robinson. Sergiño Dest, the team’s go-to backup, is currently sidelined with a torn ACL, while the likes of George Bello, Sam Vines, and Caleb Wiley still have much to prove at the international level.
Tolkin has his own questions to answer of course, having earned his four U.S. caps to date against largely second-string opposition. But if he can hold his own in Germany, he’ll be firmly in the mix for a ticket to Toronto and the 2026 World Cup, where hosts USA will be determined to improve on their disappointing Round of 16 exit in 2022.
The Bigger Picture for MLS and USA
On a macro level, Tolkin’s transfer continues MLS’ evolution into a legitimate selling league that can fetch multi-million dollar fees for homegrown stars. Once viewed primarily as a retirement home for aging European stars, the league has made a concerted effort in recent years to prioritize development and provide a runway to the global stage for North America’s top young talents.
Tolkin is part of a special generation of young Americans who have been developed at MLS clubs…this transfer is another example of how MLS is becoming a key developer of international soccer talent.
– Red Bulls Sporting Director Denis Hamlet
That focus is paying off, not only through big-money sales like Tolkin’s, but also through the on-field success of USMNT and Canadian national team stars, many of whom cut their teeth in MLS before making splashy moves abroad.
- Christian Pulisic: Joined Chelsea for $73 million in 2019, an American transfer record
- Tyler Adams: Has starred for Leeds United since $24 million move from Red Bull Leipzig
- Alphonso Davies: Signed with Bayern Munich for $22M in 2018, highest fee for MLS product at the time
With promising prospects like Tolkin and the Philadelphia Union’s Paxten Aaronson now following in those footsteps, MLS is cementing its place as a premier proving ground for CONCACAF’s brightest young stars. And as the 2026 World Cup approaches on home soil, that pipeline will be crucial for the USMNT as they aim to establish themselves as a true soccer power on the global stage.
For now though, the spotlight is on John Tolkin as he gears up for the biggest test of his young career in the Bundesliga trenches. Will the can’t-miss prospect sink or swim in the pressure cooker of a relegation fight? Only time will tell – but win, lose or draw, his journey will be essential viewing for USMNT fans far and wide.
