The 30-year-old MLS star is reportedly heading to Dallas, as he seeks a fresh start within the league
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Cincinnati reportedly deal Lucho Acosta to DallasArgentine will cost $5MAttacker was 2023 MLS MVPGet the MLS Season Pass today!Stream games nowWHAT HAPPENED?
FC Cincinnati have traded 2023 MLS MVP Lucho Acosta to FC Dallas for a $5 million, according to a report from The Argentine said in November that his time with the club may be coming to an end and transfer rumors swirled throughout the offseason.
In a fiery interview with the Queen City Press last week, Acosta criticized the club's General Manager Chris Albright. FCC then released a statement, backing their GM amid Acosta's comments.
Acosta was also absent to begin their 2025 preseason training, resulting in a fine. He eventually joined his teammates, but was training on the side to build fitness, while both parties were still searching for an exit that proved to be satisfactory.
AdvertisementUSA Today ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
In 2023, Acosta led FCC to their first Supporters' Shield title, scoring 17 goals and recording 14 assists along the way to securing the league MVP award. He followed it up in 2024 with another MVP nomination, scoring 14 goals and recording 19 assists this past year, although, he fell short in voting despite boasting better stats than the year prior.
At FC Dallas, Acosta will join star striker Petar Musa in their attack. The Croatian joined the Western Conference side ahead of the 2024 MLS season from Portuguese powerhouse Benfica for a club-record fee of $10M.
It's been a season of turnover for FCD, with attackers Jesus Ferreira and Paul Arriola departing the club, with both U.S. internationals being traded to the Seattle Sounders as the club rebuilds their attack. Star winger Alan Velasco also departed, with the 22-year-old being transferred to Argentine side Boca Juniors for a reported fee of $10M.
FCC, meanwhile, already have their replacement for Acosta sorted, the report adds.
Portland Timbers star Evander is set to replace the Argentine in the with FCC set to pay $12M for the Brazilian's services.
DID YOU KNOW?
Acosta is reportedly set to be USMNT-eligible in early 2025, with the Argentine sharing last September that paperwork was being filed. If Acosta were to become eligible to represent the U.S. in 2025, he could potentially become a role-player with the team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR ACOSTA?
The Argentine will look to sign his contract with FCD, where he will become a Designated Player on their roster. The Western Conference side, meanwhile, begin their 2025 MLS season against cross-state rivals Houston Dynamo on Feb. 22.
