MLS transfer roundup: Atlanta United sign defender Derrick Williams; Josh Atencio signs extension with Seattle
- Atlanta agree to terms with former DC United center-back
- Red Bulls have facilitated inbound & outbound transfers
- Homegrown midfielder signs new deal with Seattle Sounders
Major League Soccer clubs continue to stay active in the transfer market ahead of the upcoming 2024 campaign.
Atlanta United finally agreed to terms with a veteran defender to add to their backline depth, while the Sounders rewarded a Homegrown midfielder with a new long-term deal after his impressive performances in recent seasons.
Here's all the latest MLS transfer news you may have missed.
1. Atlanta United sign veteran center-back Derrick Williams
Atlanta United have signed center-back Derrick Williams to a two-year contract through the 2025 season with an option for 2026.
"Derrick is a tough, no-nonsense defender who brings experience with more than 300 appearances from his time in England and across MLS," Atlanta vice president and technical director Carlos Bocanegra said in a release.
"His understanding of the league, coupled with his physicality gives us additional options in our back line as we navigate multiple competitions this season."
Atlanta selected Williams in the 2023 Re-Entry Draft back in December, and the two sides have finally come to an agreement ahead of the upcoming season.
Williams spent the 2023 season with DC United after joining the Black and Red in November 2022, as he managed 27 appearances and one goal with the Eastern Conference team.
He joins an Atlanta defense that has already signed goalkeeper Josh Cohen and fellow center-back Stian Gregersen.
2. Seattle Sounders sign Josh Atencio to contract extension
Seattle Sounders have signed Homegrown midfielder Josh Atencio to a four-year contract extension through the 2027 MLS campaign with an option for 2028.
The 21-year-old made made 83 appearances across all competitions for Seattle since breaking through at the first team level in January 2019.
"We are excited to have Josh continue his playing career here in Seattle," said Seattle general manager & chief soccer officer Craig Waibel.
"He has earned this contract with his play over the years, and we think he has a bright future ahead of him. I look forward to seeing Josh continue to grow and develop as a professional."
3. Luquinhas departs New York Red Bulls for Brazilian side Fortazela
Brazilian Serie A side Fortazela Esporte Clube have signed New York Red Bulls forward Luquinhas on a permanent transfer.
"We want to thank Luquinhas for his dedication and contributions to our club for the last two years," said Head of Sport Jochen Schneider.
"Luquinhas was a great representative of our club, and we wish him and his family all the best in this next step."
In his two seasons with Red Bulls, Luquinhas registered 10 goals and 14 assists in 70 appearances in all competitions.
4. New York Red Bulls sign defender Noah Eile
New York Red Bulls have signed center-back Noah Eile from Swedish side Malmo on a four-year deal through the 2027 season. The deal for the young defender also contains an option for 2028.
Eile boasts 57 appearances at the club level, as he's managed one UEFA Champions League appearance with Malmo.
"Noah is a promising young defender that we are excited to add to our roster," said Red Bulls head of sport Jochen Schneider in a release.
"Although Noah is young, he has a lot of experience in Sweden’s top division and has the qualities we value in a defender. We cannot wait for him to get started with us."
Eile was on loan for the last two seasons at Swedish outfit Mjallby and joins a New York side that made the playoffs for a 14th consecutive season in 2023.
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