ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – New Mexico United announced a three-transaction trade with Las Vegas Lights FC on Friday. In the deal, New Mexico acquired midfielder Valentin Noël while giving up winger McKinze Gaines and defender Anthony Herbert.
“I am super excited to welcome Valentin Noël to our club,” said United Sporing Director Itimar Keinan. “He’s a creative midfielder that has proven he is one of the best midfielders in the league. Valentin is an excellent addition and I look forward to the impact he will have both on and off the field.”
The three transactions are as follows
- United acquires Noël for an undisclosed fee
- United acquires a 2025 international roster spot for Gaines
- United acquires an undisclosed fee for Herbert
Noël, a native of Niort, France moved to the United States in 2019 to play collegiate soccer at the University of Pittsburgh. He was drafted by Austin FC with the No. 20 overall selection in the 2023 MLS draft.
Following his time with the Austin organization, Noël transferred to Las Vegas in 2024. In his lone season with then Las Vegas and current New Mexico head coach Dennis Sanchez, Noël scored 11 goals in 37 matches.
In order to trade for Noël, United needed an international roster spot for the season. The trade of McKinze Gaines was the corresponding move.
Noël will be available for selection with United as early as Saturday.
