TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Loan
- ATX receive: Chris Applewhite
- NSH receive: $50k GAM
Austin FC have acquired defender Chris Applewhite on loan from Nashville SC, the clubs announced Wednesday.
The 19-year-old US youth international's loan is through June 2027 and includes a purchase option. In exchange, Nashville receive $50k in 2026 General Allocation Money (GAM).
“Chris is a highly rated prospect at the center back position and we’re excited to welcome him to Austin,” said Austin FC interim head coach Davy Arnaud. “He is coming off an excellent tournament with the U.S. U-20 team, and we hope to foster his continued development within our environment over the next year.”
Applewhite joined Nashville as a homegrown player ahead of the 2025 season. He has made five MLS appearances (two starts), logging 188 minutes in league play.
At the international level, Applewhite recently captained the United States at the 2026 Concacaf U-20 Championship. They made the tournament final and qualified for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Austin are currently 14th in the Western Conference on 24 points, five points outside of an Audi MLS Cup Playoffs position. Nashville, meanwhile, lead the Supporters' Shield race with 52 points.
READ MORE: MLS Transfer Tracker
