Atlanta United swoops for Ezequiel Barco in reported MLS record fee
Atlanta United isn't going to sit tight after a phenomenal maiden MLS campaign.
Ezequiel Barco has been unveiled as the Georgian franchise's latest marquee signing, with Sports Illustrated's Avi Creditor reporting a $15-million fee to arrange the Argentinian's arrival from Independiente. The previous high was Toronto FC's $10-million grab of Michael Bradley from Roma in 2014.
Per TyC Sports, the $15 million represents the 70 percent of the deal that was paid up front, with a further 30 percent potentially being handed to Independiente in add-ons. Barco will also donate $800,000 for a project at the Buenos Aires club, which includes the construction of two synthetic pitches in the Villa Dominico complex.
Barco joins Atlanta as a Young Designated Player pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and visa.
"Securing a player of Ezequiel's caliber is another significant moment in Atlanta United history," club president Darren Eales said. "This transfer further demonstrates the commitment of our club to bring top-level, dynamic young players to Atlanta and to MLS. We are excited to welcome Ezequiel to our club and our city."
Despite being aged just 18, Barco already boasts 57 appearances in the Primera Division, Copa Sudamericana, and Copa Argentina. He was instrumental in Independiente's hoisting of the 2017 Copa Sudamericana, scoring three times and assisting twice during the team's run. He notably outshone Vinicius Junior, the Real Madrid phenom on loan at Flamengo, in the two-legged final.
"It speaks to the type of club that we're becoming that Ezequiel chose to sign with our club over several European competitors," vice president and technical director Carlos Bocanegra said. "As one of the top young players in South America who has been a fixture in the Argentinian youth national team setup, we're elated that he's decided to continue his career in Atlanta."
Barco will be managed by former Barcelona handler Gerardo "Tata" Martino at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and will combine with Josef Martinez, Miguel Almiron, and Hector Villalba in a South American attack that promises to devastate some MLS defenses.