🚨 Charlotte FC sign USMNT stalwart Tim Ream

United States international defender Tim Ream has returned to his homeland, joining Major League Soccer club Charlotte FC.

Ream has signed a contract with The Crown – who are coached by former Aston Villa, Norwich and Leicester boss Dean Smith – which runs until 2026, with the option for a further year.

“I’m really excited to join Charlotte FC and return to the US for this next chapter of my career,” the 36-year-old told the club’s official website.

“In all my conversations with the people around the Club, it was clear this organization and city were the right places for my family and I to continue our journey. I’m here to win, and I’m looking forward to getting to know the team as we prepare for a key stretch of matches that will propel us toward the playoffs as we fight for our first trophy.”

A native of St Louis, Missouri, Ream previously played for Chicago Fire Premier and New York Red Bulls, before moving to England to play for Bolton Wanderers in 2012.

In 2015 he moved to Fulham, where he stayed until his contract expired this summer, making 312 appearances for the Cottagers (97 of which came in the Premier League) and captaining the club.

At international level he has been capped 61 times for the USMNT, representing the Stars and Stripes at the 2022 World Cup.

Ream is eligible to make his debut for Charlotte when they face his old club New York Red Bulls in MLS on August 24.