Atlanta United Makes History with Record-Breaking Transfer
On a momentous Tuesday, Atlanta United FC announced the signing of Emmanuel Latte Lath, a dynamic and fast-paced striker from Ivory Coast, marking the most expensive incoming transfer in Major League Soccer (MLS) history. The club has reportedly paid a staggering $22 million to English club Middlesbrough for the 26-year-old forward, breaking the previous record of $16.2 million set by FC Cincinnati when they acquired Kevin Denkey from Cercle Brugge in November. Latte Lath’s contract extends through the 2028 MLS season with an option for 2029, ensuring that Atlanta United fans will have the opportunity to witness his talents for years to come.
A Forward with Exceptional Pace and Instincts
Chris Henderson, Atlanta United’s sporting director, shed light on the club’s decision to bring in Latte Lath. "He’s a forward with excellent pace and good goalscoring instincts," Henderson explained. "His ability to stretch the field will add another dimension to our attack." Latte Lath, known for his agility and speed, has the potential to transform Atlanta United’s offensive lineup. His signing not only solidifies the club’s commitment to competing at the highest level but also signals a strategic move to diversify and enhance their attacking capabilities.
Return of a Fan Favorite: Miguel Almirón
This transfer marks Atlanta United’s second major addition of the offseason, following the return of Miguel Almirón from Newcastle United. Almirón, who previously played for Atlanta from 2017 to 2019, including their championship-winning 2018 season, is back at his former club for a reported fee of around $10 million. Almirón’s return has been met with immense excitement from the Five Stripes’ fanbase, as he is a beloved figure who contributed significantly to the club’s success during his initial tenure. The combination of Almirón’s experience and Latte Lath’s youthful dynamism could prove to be a formidable duo for Atlanta United in the upcoming seasons.
Atlanta United’s Financial Milestones
With the Latte Lath and Almirón deals, Atlanta United has set two significant financial records in MLS. The $22 million paid for Latte Lath is the highest fee ever paid by an MLS club for an incoming player, while the $27 million received for Almirón’s transfer to Newcastle United in 2019 was the largest outgoing transfer fee in the league’s history until recently. Aston Villa’s recent $79 million acquisition of Jhon Duran from the Chicago Fire, which included performance bonuses and a sell-on percentage, has now surpassed Almirón’s outgoing fee. Nevertheless, Atlanta United’s ability to both attract and retain top talent through substantial financial investments underscores their ambition and success in the transfer market.
Latte Lath’s Proven Track Record
Emmanuel Latte Lath’s journey to Atlanta United is marked by his impressive performances in various European leagues. He began his professional career with Italy’s Atalanta at the young age of 17 in 2016, demonstrating his potential from the outset. Latte Lath’s prolific goal-scoring ability has been on full display during his time at Middlesbrough, where he tallied 29 goals in 67 matches over the 2023-2025 period. In the current campaign alone, he has already scored a team-high 11 goals. At 26 years old, Latte Lath is entering the prime of his career, and his proven record in multiple leagues makes him a valuable addition to the Five Stripes’ roster.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 MLS Season
The excitement builds as Atlanta United prepares to open the 2025 MLS regular season on February 22 against CF Montreal at home. The inclusion of Latte Lath and the return of Almirón are expected to bolster the team’s roster, providing a strong foundation for their pursuit of another MLS Cup. Fans and supporters are eagerly anticipating the impact these new signings will have on the field, and the club is confident that their investments will pay off in the form of competitive success and thrilling performances. As the season approaches, Atlanta United’s focus remains on integrating their new stars and continuing their tradition of excellence in American soccer.
