Orlando City complete signing of Gaston Gonzalez from Atletico Union
By Chris Smith
Orlando City have completed the signing of forward Gaston Gonzalez from Argentine side Club Atletico Union.
Gonzalez arrives as a U22 Initiative player, signing a contract at Exploria Stadium through 2024, with options on further individual seasons up until 2027.
The 20-year-old has been on Orlando's radar for some time but his initial move was delayed after suffering an ACL injury in mid-April. But the Lions have pushed the deal through before immediately adding Gonzalez to the season-ending injury list.
He will arrive in Orlando after undergoing surgery, with the timeline for his recovery unknown.
“Following Gastón’s unfortunate injury we were able to restructure our deal for him to join the Club. For us now, Gastón’s recovery is what is most important and we will give him all the necessary resources to come back healthier and stronger,” Orlando executive vice president of soccer operations and general manager Luiz Muzzi said in a club press release.
“Although we are saddened by the circumstances delaying his on-field arrival, injuries are a part of the game and we’re very excited about having him here, his future with us and we look forward to him joining the team when fully healthy.”
Gonzalez hit eight goals and seven assists in 58 appearances across all competitions for Atletico Union and gained experience in the Copa Sudamericana.
He was the second forward signed by Orlando on Thursday's transfer deadline, following the earlier acquisition of fellow winger Jake Mulraney from rivals Atlanta United.