According to sources, Austin FC is finalizing a loan deal for Nashville SC's Chris Applewhite that will run until next summer and include a purchase option. The 19-year-old USYNT center back, who captained the United States at the U-20 Concacaf Championship, is expected to get more playing time for the remainder of the season in Austin. For the USA U20 team, Applewhite has 5 caps and 1 goal. He has made 1 appearance in MLS Next Pro in the 2025/2026 season. Applewhite joined Nashville SC in January 2025 and his contract expires on 31/12/2027. His current Transfermarkt market value is €150k.