Dominic Oduro traded to Toronto FC for Alvaro Rey

The Crew traded Dominic Oduro to Toronto FC for Alvaro Rey today. The speedy Ghanaian forward led Columbus with 13 goals in 2013, but hadn't scored this year. Rey has appeared in seven games for Toronto, playing as a wide midfielder. He hasn't scored this year either.

Oduro joined the team before last season in a trade with the Fire and immediately slotted into the right midfield. He ultimately started all 34 games for the team, shifting between the right side and forward. He quickly adapted to Higuain's pinpoint passing and former head coach Robert Warzycha's direct offensive style. His performance earned him a new deal and a heft raise to $250,000 guaranteed according to the MLS Players Union.

Oduro has struggled this year with Gregg Berhalter's passing and possession style offense. He appeared in 11 of the team's 14 games, but only started six. He was often tasked with holding up the ball or playing quick combination passes with other attackers. It didn't fit his driving attacking style.

In return, the Crew acquire Spanish winger Alvaro Rey. Rey joined Toronto in the middle of last year and quickly became a key part of the Toronto midfield. He appeared in 13 games, starting nine. He recorded a goal and an assist. He's been a frequent contributor this year, logging six starts in seven appearances.

Both Oduro and Rey will fit in better with their team's styles. Oduro will benefit from the direct style that Toronto plays while Rey shines when given a chance to use his technical skills and link up with combination passing.

Berhalter highlighted Rey's technical ability in a release to the media, but also importantly noted the move provides financial flexibility for the Crew. There is a significant difference in salaries as Rey is guaranteed $204,450 while Oduro is making 251,667 according to the MLS Players Union. The difference of nearly $50,000 likely gives Columbus significant salary budget space to play with.