The Columbus Crew are reportedly working on signing Fenerbahce winger Diego Rossi, with Atlanta United set to miss out on the Uruguayan forward.
According to the Athletic, the Eastern Conference side are attempting to finalize a transfer for the former Los Angeles FC superstar, with journalist Manuel Veth adding that Rossi could cost as much as €6m ($6.5m).
The Crew are one of many MLS sides looking to add to their roster before tomorrow’s transfer window deadline, though many had expected Atlanta to move for Rossi this summer.
Turkish media outlets have reported this window that the Five Stripes have been the favorites to sign Rossi. However, Atlanta have seemingly opted to pursue other targets ahead of the deadline.
As a result, the Crew are now closing in on a deal for Rossi, who could make a stunning return to MLS two years after quitting LAFC to join Fenerbahce in Europe.
Atlanta could regret letting the Columbus Crew sign Rossi
Atlanta’s need for a wide forward is obvious this summer, which is why it comes as a surprise why the Crew have been allowed to make such a clear attempt to sign Rossi before the deadline.
The 25-year-old is an established goalscorer in MLS and still an international with one South America’s biggest nations in Uruguay, a recipe for success for a franchise like Atlanta.
However, it’s the Crew that have now won the race for the Fenerbahce winger, and Atlanta could live to regret their reluctance to move for Rossi if they fail to sign a wide-attacker before tomorrow’s deadline.