Defender John Tolkin has transferred to Holstein Kiel of the German Bundesliga from Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls.

Bundesliga club Holstein Kiel have been forced to defend their signing of USMNT international John Tolkin following criticism of his social media activity. The 22-year-old wing-back — a club-record transfer from Major League Soccer side New York Red Bulls — has faced criticism for his activity online relating to a variety of topics including gender identity and conspiracies around the COVID pandemic.

The New York Red Bulls transferred defender John Tolkin to Bundesliga side Holstein Kiel for a reported $3 million fee on Thursday.

John Tolkin’s move to Holstein Kiel in Germany isn’t just another transfer in the world of soccer, it’s a bold gamble, a game-changer in the life of a 22-year-old with the talent and potential to shine on bigger stages. This move is going to change everything for the left-back from the New York Red Bulls.

John Tolkin has joined Holstein Kiel in a permanent transfer from the New York Red Bulls for an undisclosed fee, both clubs announced Thursday. Tolkin left

Defender John Tolkin transferred Thursday to Holstein Kiel of the Bundesliga from Major League Soccer's New York Red Bulls.

New York Red Bulls left back John Tolkin has completed a transfer to Bundesliga side Holstein Kiel, the clubs announced on Thursday.

Thursday saw the New York Red Bulls officially announce the transfer of star defender John Tolkin to Holstein Kiel of the Bundesliga — the top flight of Germany and one of the largest soccer leagues in the world.