‘Taxi’ on the move - Kemar Lawrence joins Belgian outfit RSC Anderlecht

After five years in the United States, Jamaican international Kemar Lawrence has got the opportunity to challenge himself in Europe.

The 27-year-old defender joined Belgian outfit RSC Anderlecht last Friday after his Major League Soccer (MLS) club New York Red Bulls transferred him in a deal reportedly worth $US1.25 million according to United States football writers Paul Tenorio and Sam Stejskal of The Athletic. Lawrence became RSC Anderlecht's third signing in the January transfer window after earlier acquisitions of winger Marko Pjaca and striker Dejan Joveljic on transfer deadline day.

The Reggae Boy is the second player from the Red Bulls to depart for Anderlecht in the winter transfer window after Panamanian defender Michael Murrilo was sold last month for an undisclosed fee. In a video posted on the club's website, Lawrence said that he was thrilled to be joining his new team. "Just want to tell you that I am excited to be joining you guys," he said. "Heard a lot about the team, heard a lot about the fans."

IMPORTANT NEED

Anderlecht Sporting Director Michael Verschueren said that Lawrence's qualities would be able to fill an important need for the team, which is currently in mid-table in the Jupiler Pro League.

"He is someone who is known for efficient football, very powerful football. We especially wanted to add strength to this team," he said. "And the quality of the player is unique."

Lawrence's European move concludes the contract situation that developed in November after he expressed dissatisfaction with his former club over his deal, which had another two years left with the option of a third. The divide between the two parties widened when the club reportedly refused to negotiate a new contract.

He joined Red Bulls from Red Stripe Premier League side Harbour View in 2015 and has gone on to make 118 appearances for the club, winning the Supporter Shield twice, the title given to the regular season champions. He was named an MLS All star for the first time in his career last season and also 2019's best 11.