We all expected to see Jozy Altidore leave before the season is over. Right now, it looks like the end of his Metro career is closer than anyone thought. According to SoccerByIves, MLS has sold the young phenom to Spanish club Villarreal for $8 million (that could rise to $10 with performance bonuses), a record for an American.

Last night, Spanish paper Marca reported that Villarreal is posed to sign Altidore. The New York Times then said that "an agreement in principle" has been reached. A few hours later, RBNY sources confirmed the deal.

Metro would receive an allocation for Altidore, but the usual 2/3 of the transfer fee rule would not apply. Although RBNY should receive the entire two thirds, only the maximum allowed amount, 500,000, could be used on the allocation. The rest can be spent in any way imaginable... as long as it has no effect on player salaries or the salary cap. (However, is can be used on the portion of a salary of a designated player that does not count against the cap.)

Marca also speculated that after signing Altidore, Villarreal might loan him for a season to Recreativo Huelva.