United States defender Tim Ream is leaving Fulham after nine years with the English club to join Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer.

Fulham announced the departure of Ream on Wednesday, with the London team describing the 36-year-old center back as a "legend" and an "outstanding servant."

Ream spent the past 12 years in England after an MLS stint with the New York Red Bulls from 2010-11.

"I'm really excited to join Charlotte FC and return to the US for this next chapter of my career," Ream said in a news release.

"In all my conversations with the people around the club, it was clear this organization and city were the right places for my family and me to continue our journey. I'm here to win, and I'm looking forward to getting to know the team as we prepare for a key stretch of matches that will propel us toward the playoffs as we fight for our first trophy."

Ream has played more than 450 professional matches with the Red Bulls, Bolton Wanderers (2012-15) and Fulham (2015-24). He has also earned 61 caps with the USMNT, including four starts at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and recent appearances at the 2024 Copa América.

"Tim has been a rock at the back for Fulham for the last decade and has proven himself as one of the best central defenders the United States has ever produced," Charlotte general manager Zoran Krneta said.

"His Premier League and World Cup credentials speak for themselves, and he's been ever-present in big moments for club and country. He comes to us in good form and upgrades an already excellent defense as we prepare for the final stretch of the season to qualify for the playoffs."

Information from The Associated Press and Field Level Media contributed to this report.