Tim Payne is making a lifechanging move to one of South America’s biggest clubs.
The Wellington Phoenix have accepted an undisclosed fee from Club Olimpia for the All Whites fullback to join the 48-time Paraguay champions.
The transfer is subject to Payne completing a medical with Olimpia after the FIFA World Cup.
It caps a whirlwind three weeks for the experienced defender, who has become one of the most talked about footballers on the planet after a viral social media campaign by an Argentinian influencer encouraged fans to make him the main character of the tournament.
Payne leaves the Phoenix as the seventh most capped player in club history, having made 149 A-League appearances for the Nix since arriving in Wellington in 2019.
“This wasn’t an easy decision,” Payne said. “To the fans, my teammates and all those who have supported me throughout my career, the highs and the lows, thank you.
“Without you I would not be here representing my country at the World Cup – the very pinnacle of the sport.
“I’ve always pushed myself to be the best footballer I can be. The opportunity to test myself at the very top of South American football in the Copa Libertadores and the Copa Sudamericana is one of the most incredible opportunities I could have asked for as a professional.
“Club Olimpia is one of the biggest clubs in South America, with an incredible history, passionate supporters and ambitions that match its stature, and I am looking forward to rising to that challenge.
“For our family, this is something really special. My son, growing up speaking Spanish like his mum did, immersing ourselves in her culture and her family’s world is what makes this so much more than just a football move.
“Opportunities like this don’t come around often, and we’re not taking it for granted.
“I’m grateful for everything Wellington Phoenix has given me and I’m excited for the challenge ahead, but right now, my focus is on representing my country at the World Cup.”
Phoenix director of football Shaun Gill has thanked Payne for his contribution to the club.
“Payney has left an indelible mark on the Wellington Phoenix,” Gill said. “He has been a key member of the men’s squad for the past seven seasons and was influential in the team’s record-breaking 2023-24 campaign.
“We would have loved Payney to continue his journey with the Phoenix, and we discussed his future.
“But talking to him it became clear this is a lifechanging opportunity for Payney and his family and one he simply couldn’t turn down.
“We wish him and the All Whites all the best for the remainder of their World Cup campaign and we’ll be cheering on Club Olimpia in their quest to win a record-extending 49th league title.”
