Jacen Russell-Rowe set for Toulouse transfer, Columbus finalizing deal

The 23-year-old Canadian forward will head to France's Ligue 1 in hopes of boosting his World Cup chances.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 4:23pm

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Toulouse FC is finalizing a deal to sign Canadian international forward Jacen Russell-Rowe from the Columbus Crew. The transfer fee is around $2.5 million plus add-ons, and the Crew will retain a sell-on clause. Russell-Rowe, who has 8 caps for Canada, one of the 2026 World Cup co-hosts, is hoping the move to Europe will increase his chances of making Jesse Marsch's World Cup squad.

Why it matters

This transfer represents an opportunity for Russell-Rowe to gain more exposure and experience playing in one of Europe's top leagues, which could improve his chances of making Canada's 2026 World Cup roster. It also shows Toulouse's continued interest in acquiring talent from MLS, having previously bid for another Crew player.

The details

Russell-Rowe, 23, had 9 goals and 2 assists in just under 2,000 regular season and postseason minutes for the Crew in 2025. However, Columbus has depth in the attack, with players like Palestine international Wessam Abou Ali, Diego Rossi and Daniel Gazdag. Toulouse currently sits in 8th place in Ligue 1, but is just 3 points out of 5th place through 19 matches.

  • Jacen Russell-Rowe's contract with the Columbus Crew was set to expire at the end of 2025.

The players

Jacen Russell-Rowe

A 23-year-old Canadian forward who has 8 caps for the Canadian national team, one of the 2026 World Cup co-hosts.

Toulouse FC

A French Ligue 1 club that is finalizing a deal to sign Jacen Russell-Rowe from the Columbus Crew.

Columbus Crew

The MLS club that is finalizing the transfer of Jacen Russell-Rowe to Toulouse FC.

Jesse Marsch

The head coach of the Canadian national team, which Jacen Russell-Rowe hopes to make the 2026 World Cup roster for.

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What’s next

Russell-Rowe will join Toulouse FC and look to establish himself as a regular in Ligue 1 ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America.

The takeaway

This transfer highlights the continued flow of talent from MLS to top European leagues, as players seek greater visibility and opportunities to boost their national team prospects. It also demonstrates Toulouse's ambition to acquire promising young players from abroad.