Tim Howard signs with Colorado Rapids, will join club from Everton this summer

One of the worst-kept secrets in Major League Soccer is a secret no longer.

The Colorado Rapids confirmed Sunday what has long been speculated, announcing the acquisition of American international goalkeeper Tim Howard from Everton.

Howard, 37, will join the Rapids at the conclusion of the Premier League season and will occupy a Designated Player spot on the club's roster. The veteran shot-stopper, who rejoins MLS after 13 years in England, will be officially added to the Rapids' roster on July 4.

"I've had a fantastic career in England, in particular at Everton Football Club," Howard told ESPN FC. "It's not done yet, but I think as football clubs move forward and players have careers to think about, you always have to make decisions.

"When I spoke to my family, when I spoke to Roberto Martinez and the chairman (Bill Kenwright) as well, I thought the decision, and the timing more than anything - because in life it's all about timing - and obviously with my discussions with Colorado, it just seemed to be the right move. It was an instinctual gut feeling, and I'm excited about it."

Though terms of the deal were not released, Jeff Carlisle of ESPN reports that Howard, who began his professional career in 1998 with the MetroStars - now the New York Red Bulls - will earn between $2.5 and 2.8 million per year on average. The contract is thought to run through the 2019 season, when the American will be 40 years old.

Grant Wahl adds that Everton will pocket $700,000 on the transfer fee.

Still the top option between the sticks for U.S. manager Jurgen Klinsmann heading into this summer's Copa America Centenario, Howard returns to North America after playing 492 matches in England - split between Manchester United (77) and Everton (415). His time with the former saw the goalkeeper win an FA Cup, Football League Cup, and FA Community Shield, while his lengthy spell on Merseyside saw him reach an impressive milestone when he notched his 100th clean sheet with the Toffees in 2013.

To date, Howard has been capped by the United States 106 times and holds the World Cup record for most saves recorded in a single match (16 against Belgium in 2014).

"Tim is one of the greatest players this country has ever produced and we are delighted that he chose the Colorado Rapids when he decided to rejoin MLS," Rapids president Tim Hinchey said. "We believe he can be an ambassador not only for our club but for the sport of soccer in the U.S. We are truly excited that Tim is a part of our future."