Atlanta makes Martinez move from Torino permanent
Josef Martinez, unpack your bags.
With five goals in three matches for Eastern Conference leader Atlanta United, Venezuelan striker Martinez has carved a niche in North America's top tier.
Martinez can now call Atlanta his home, after the club announced Tuesday that it had agreed to a permanent deal with Serie A side Torino for the services of the 23-year-old on a multi-year deal.
"The loan deal had an option to make the transfer permanent which we have now triggered as planned," Atlanta president Darren Eales said. "Josef has been a fantastic addition to our club and it's clear he has the ability to continuing making an impact in our league."
Realted: Josef Martinez named MLS Player of the Week
An impact indeed, as Martinez leads the league in scoring with five goals, including a treble against fellow MLS newboys Minnesota United that saw the 37-time capped Venezuelan international earn Player of the Week honors. He's also tops in shots (15) and multi-goal appearances (2).
Thriving in Tata Martino's side, Martinez has played up top in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of another sage offseason signing, Miguel Almiron, with Hector Villalba and Yamil Asad in support. That quartet has led Atlanta to first place in the Eastern Conference after three matches, with 11 goals scored tops among MLS sides.
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