Atlanta United’s 2019 roster will likely include a few major alterations from the MLS Cup champions that left the field Saturday, and that may includes the loss of star midfielder Miguel Almirón. But ESPN reports that Almiron’s replacement might already be ready to join the fold.
Gonzalo “Pity” Martinez said Sunday he will leave River Plate, a team based in Buenos Aires, and join Atlanta United after the FIFA Club World Cup. Atlanta reportedly agreed to pay the 25-year-old midfielder a $17 million transfer fee, which would top the record $15 million it paid before the 2018 season for Ezequiel Barco.
Club president Darren Eales mentioned the rumors of Martinez’s signing following the victory parade Monday, but did not confirm anything, telling The Atlanta-Journal Constitution: “We’ve certainly got some irons in the fire and we are always looking to improve the squad.”
