Minnesota United announced today the club has signed defender Chase Gasper to a new four-year contract, starting in 2022.
“Arguably, our 2019 draft was as good a draft as anybody has had for years and years. Three guys who we know that can contribute,” said MNUFC Head Coach Adrian Heath. “If you look back to when he started for the team, his level of performance has been so consistent. He’s been terrific. I always talk about what people put into the football club, he puts something into this football club every single day. Great attitude, great professional, great teammate. We’re so pleased that another player, who we consider one of our own, has decided to commit as well.”
Since joining Minnesota United as a first-round draft pick in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft, Gasper has been a mainstay on the Loons’ backline. Despite not making his first start until June 2019, he quickly made an impact and was locked in as the go-to starting left back for Adrian Heath. As a Loon, Gasper has contributed to 20 shutouts, including two in the 2020 MLS Cup Playoffs and has scored two goals.
“It means everything for a player that your boss is confident in you,” said MNUFC defender Chase Gasper. “[Adrian Heath] has trusted me to play and start most of the games since I’ve been here. Those are the guys you want to play for. For coaches like that, for teammates like that, and the fans we have, I’m going to do everything I can – like I’ve done since I’ve gotten here and for all my time here – give my all on the field. Really happy, excited and proud. I owe thanks to my teammates, my coaches and, especially, the fans. I can’t wait for the next four years.”
Internationally, Gasper has made two appearances for the U18 U.S. Men’s National Team and has been called up to the senior national team twice. He made his senior national team debut on February 1, 2020 in an international friendly against Costa Rica.
Gasper transferred to Maryland after three years at UCLA in order to be closer to his father who was dealing with a health issue. He helped lead the Terrapins to the 2018 NCAA National Championship title. According to his teammate (and college roommate) Dayne St. Clair, Gasper was a rock for the team — the kind of defensive player you always want to have in front of you. The 6-foot, 185 lb Gasper also likes to get forward and help the attack down the left side of the field and was named to the Pacific 12 All-Freshman Second Team in 2014.
Transaction: Minnesota United sign defender Chase Gasper to a four-year contract.
VITALS
Chase Gasper
Position: Defender
Date of birth: 01.25.1996 (25 years old)
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 185 lbs
Birthplace: Alexandria, Virgina
Citizenship: United States
