The New York Red Bulls have reached an agreement to transfer homegrown wing-back John Tolkin to Holstein Kiel of the Bundesliga for a record-breaking fee of $3 million (€2.9m), sources confirmed to The Athletic. The deal includes a sell-on clause for the Red Bulls in any future transfers involving the 22-year-old defender.
Tolkin, who was spotted in Germany touring Kiel's facilities, is set to join a club fighting for Bundesliga survival. Holstein Kiel, currently sitting in 17th place and three points behind Hoffenheim in the battle to avoid relegation, is making history with this signing as it represents their highest transfer fee ever. The club achieved promotion to Germany's top flight last season for the first time since 1963.
The move comes after a significant 2024 campaign for both Tolkin and the Red Bulls. Under new head coach Sandro Schwarz, who brought experience from his previous stint at Hertha Berlin, the Red Bulls extended their impressive playoff streak to 15 seasons and made their first MLS Cup playoffs appearance since 2008. Tolkin thrived in Schwarz's system, showcasing his versatility as both a traditional left-back and wing-back.
The young defender also made his mark on the international stage, representing the United States at the 2024 Olympics. He started all four matches, accumulating 350 minutes of playing time as the U-23 squad advanced to the quarterfinals. His naturally left-footed ability and high work rate have been hallmarks of his play, along with his set-piece expertise - creating 39 of his 62 chances from dead ball situations.
At Holstein Kiel, Tolkin is expected to slot into Marcel Rapp's tactical setup, which favors using wing-backs - a role he has become increasingly comfortable with under Schwarz's guidance at the Red Bulls. While both clubs declined to comment when contacted, the transfer marks a significant step in Tolkin's career as he moves from his boyhood club to the challenging environment of the Bundesliga.
