Washington (AFP) – Argentine striker Luciano Acosta, the 2023 MLS Most Valuable Player, was traded from FC Cincinnati to FC Dallas on Wednesday for $5 million, the teams announced. The 30-year-old attacking midfielder sparked Cincinnati to the best 2023 MLS regular-season record, although the team lost 3-2 in the playoff semi-finals to their arch-rivals, eventual MLS champion Columbus Crew. Cincinnati could also receive up to an extra $1 million from Dallas if Acosta reaches performance levels in the 2025 campaign that begins later this month. The player-for-cash trade rule was added for the 2025 MLS season.
“This is a landmark signing for FC Dallas and a statement of our commitment to building a championship-caliber team,” FC Dallas president Dan Hunt said. “Bringing in a player of Lucho’s caliber –- an MVP and proven leader -– demonstrates our ambition and desire to compete at the highest level. We are thrilled to welcome him to the FC Dallas family and cannot wait to see him inspire our fans and teammates alike.”
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Acosta spent four seasons with D.C. United and two years with Atlas of the Mexican league before joining Cincinnati in 2021. He scored 17 goals in 32 matches for Cincinnati in his 2023 MVP campaign, had 10 goals in 2022, and last year netted 14 goals.
“As Lucho departs, we want to express our gratitude,” FC Cincinnati general manager Chris Albright said. “Lucho has been a tremendous player for this club. We wish him the best of luck in his next chapter. We will look to quickly add to our group with a player of elite talent and strong character.”
Dallas will open the MLS season on February 22 at Houston while Cincinnati begins the 2025 campaign the same night at home against the New York Red Bulls.
© 2024 AFP
