ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico United announced on Friday the club had signed defender Kipp Keller for the 2026 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Keller returns to the Black & Yellow after a successful loan stint during the 2025 campaign, during which he joined the club from Minnesota United FC of Major League Soccer and quickly established himself as a key presence along the back line.

The 25-year-old made 12 appearances (11 starts) and logged 965 minutes of action across the regular season and playoffs, recording one goal, one assist and notching 72 clearances, 40 recoveries and five interceptions defensively while also winning 39 duels at a 56.5 percent success rate.

“From the moment last season ended, bringing Kipp back was a top priority for us,” said Sporting Director Itamar Keinan. “He joined the club on loan midseason and made an immediate impact, both on and off the field. His tenacity, leadership, and commitment were unmatched, and we’re incredibly excited to have him back with New Mexico United.”

Across the full 2025 season between New Mexico United and Minnesota United FC 2 in MLS NEXT Pro, Keller totaled 20 appearances (19 starts) and 1,485 minutes.

A native of Saint Louis, Mich., Keller began his professional career in Major League Soccer and brings valuable top-flight experience to United. He has previously competed in the Concacaf Champions League on two occasions, appearing with FC Cincinnati (2023–24) and Austin FC (2022–23). Keller was also a member of the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro title-winner at Austin FC II.