Orlando City are taking advantage of the MLS’s prolonged transfer window and closing in on signing Luis Muriel from Atalanta.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Luis Muriel is close to joining MLS side Orlando City in the coming days. The American transfer window remains open despite their European counterparts shutting shop, and the MLS side want the Colombian international to boost their attacking options.
The transfer window in Europe has shut down, and clubs are now focused on their season ahead without the distraction of incoming and outgoing players. The MLS window, however, remains open for the time being, and there are chances some of those clubs could look at Europe and bring in some notable stars.
Orlando City are now keen on Luis Muriel, as they see plenty of value in signing the Serie A striker from Atalanta. The MLS side may have wanted to improve their attacking options considerably, and keeping in mind the financial aspects of signing someone from across the Atlantic, the Colombian international makes more sense.
Muriel has already entered the final six months of his contract with Atalanta, and at 32, he does not have a long-term future. He used to be a prolific presence for the Bergamo side, but in recent seasons, he has slowed down considerably.
The Colombian still has six goals this season, with two in the league and four in the Europa League. While he could still add value to Atalanta’s campaign on European and domestic fronts, La Dea will likely sell him for a low price given the time remaining on his deal.
Luis Muriel has scored 68 times in 184 appearances for Atalanta while also providing 28 assists during that period. He used to be an essential star for the Bergamo side and even had multiple chances to move to a bigger club, including to some in the Premier League, but remained in Italy for a considerable amount of time.
Now, with Orlando City opening their doors towards signing him, the striker will see the opportunity to take the leap and grace the MLS with his prowess. Orlando also has a massive Colombian population, which could see this as a favourable move for all parties concerned.
How much the MLS outfit are paying remains under wraps for now, although there are chances for Orlando City even to sign him on a free transfer. In case they are indeed paying a fee, it will still be meagre at best.
