Multiple sources have told MLSsoccer.com that Atlanta United turned down a transfer offer between $20-$25 million for Miguel Almiron and a separate offer of $10 million for Josef Martinez over the summer.
Both players are coming off stellar seasons with Atlanta. Almiron recorded nine goals and 14 assists in 30 league appearances, while Martinez scored 19 times despite playing in just 20 regular-season games. Both played a huge role in helping Atlanta become the first MLS expansion team since 2009 to qualify for the playoffs, where they were upset by Columbus Crew SC in the Knockout Round.
The sources said the teams that made the offers are European, but didn't know the specific clubs or leagues in which they play.
Almiron has been the subject of numerous transfer rumors in recent weeks, with Arsenal, Internazionale, AC Milan and Newcastle among the clubs linked to the Paraguayan international. The 23-year-old joined Atlanta last December via transfer from Argentine club Lanus.
Martinez, 24, was acquired by Atlanta on loan from Serie A club Torino in February and signed permanently with the club over the summer. The Venezuelan international had 19 goals in 113 league appearances in the Swiss and Italian top flights before moving to MLS this year.
The record transfer fee paid for an MLS player is $10 million by Villarreal for then-New York Red Bulls striker Jozy Altidore in 2008.
