TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Report
A Paraguayan attacker has been linked to Atlanta United, with journalist Arturo Maximo Rubin stating that Olimpia youngster Erik Lopez is heading to the Five Stripes.
Lopez, 18, made 15 appearances last year for the three-time Copa Libertadores champions, scoring four goals and providing four assists. He made one appearance during the 2020 season before the COVID-19 pandemic derailed global soccer, and was part of Paraguay’s U-23 team for the Conmebol Pre-Olympic Tournament.
Other reports out of Paraguay suggest the fee could rise to $5 million.
The development comes after technical director Carlos Bocanegra left open the door to signing a forward during the summer transfer window, which is set for July 7 through Aug. 5. Final-third reinforcements could be necessary after Josef Martinez’s long-term knee injury, and Atlanta has shown an eagerness to turn to South America for talent.
There's no better example of that than Paraguayan attacking midfielder Miguel Almiron, who joined Newcastle United after the 2018 season for reportedly over $27 million. As of now, Atlanta have five players from Argentina on their roster.
The MLS transfer window has been on pause since play was suspended on March 12 due to the Covid-19 pandemic but Atlanta are seemingly hopeful of ensuring reinforcements ahead of the MLS is Back Tournament, which begins for Atlanta against Group E foe New York Red Bulls on July 11 (8 pm ET | FOX, TUDN, TSN). Games against FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew SC also await in Florida.
