TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS:Signing
FC Cincinnati have acquired midfielder Luciano Acosta from Liga MX side Atlas, the club announced Wednesday. Cincy acquired his MLS rights from D.C. United for 250,000 in General Allocation Money plus the potential for future GAM based on agreed-upon incentives
Acosta will be a Designated Player on Cincy's roster.
“Lucho is a proven attacking midfielder in Major League Soccer and is a welcome addition to our team,” FC Cincinnati general manager Gerard Nijkamp said in a team release. “He was a vital player for D.C. United in his four seasons in the league and we are confident a player of his talent profile is a strong complement to our current roster. We look forward to welcoming Lucho to Cincinnati as we continue building for the upcoming season and beyond.”
Acosta, 26, starred for D.C. United for four seasons before heading to Atlas upon the expiration of his contract after the 2019 season. The diminutive attacking midfielder had 24 goals and 35 assists in 126 MLS appearances, including a magical 2018 season in which he had 10 goals and 17 assists, as he and Wayne Rooney made United one of the league's most exciting teams. His form nearly landed him with PSG, though a transfer fell through at the final stages.
The midfielder had three goals and two assists over 34 appearances (27 starts) during his time with Atlas.
Cincinnati had been public in their desire to sign a difference-making attacking midfielder, as the club scored the fewest goals in MLS in 2020. Acosta is the latest key addition, following Brazi youth international forward Brenner and Costa Rican international left back Ronald Matarrita. Acosta will be tasked with the main chance creation for Brenner as well as last season's big attacking import, Jurgen Locadia, who struggled for form in 2020.
Acosta originally joined D.C. from Argentine giants Boca Juniors, making 26 appearances at the club. Acosta also spent time on loan in Argentina at Estudiantes.
