FRISCO, Texas — FC Dallas has successfully secured Argentine midfielder Luciano Acosta from FC Cincinnati in a significant player transfer that costs at least $5 million. This marks one of the most substantial cash-for-player exchanges in Major League Soccer (MLS) to date.
Acosta, who was honored as the 2023 MLS MVP, holds the distinction of being Cincinnati’s all-time leader with 54 goals and 72 assists since he joined the club in 2021. His performance was pivotal in transforming Cincinnati’s fortunes, who had previously struggled, finishing last in their first three seasons. The team made history by qualifying for the playoffs for the first time in 2022, and in 2023, they clinched the Supporter’s Shield, which recognizes the best regular-season record, during Acosta’s MVP campaign.
This financial deal could potentially exceed $6 million with added performance-based incentives, capped at $1 million. The introduction of cash-for-player trades in MLS was made possible just last month, enabling clubs to recruit players using liquid cash rather than relying on allocation money or other tangible assets like draft picks and roster spaces.
The 30-year-old Acosta has not only led the league as a two-time All-Star team captain but is also among six players in MLS history to achieve three or more seasons with both 10 or more goals and 10 or more assists in a single season. His remarkable 2023 season saw him net 17 goals and provide 14 assists.
“This is a landmark signing for FC Dallas and a statement of our commitment to building a championship-caliber team,” noted FC Dallas president Dan Hunt. “Acquiring a player of Lucho’s caliber, who has MVP credentials and is a proven leader, showcases our ambition to compete at the highest level.”
FC Dallas enters the new chapter under Eric Quill, their first-year coach, after parting ways with Nico Estevez in June. At the time, the club’s record stood at 3-8-5, ultimately finishing the season at 11-15-8 and failing to secure a playoff spot.
Prior to his time with Cincinnati, Acosta had a stint with Atlas FC in Liga MX from 2019 to 2021 and was initially on loan at D.C. United in 2016, later making that transfer permanent. During his tenure with United, he helped guide the team to the playoffs three out of four years and accumulated 10 goals along with 17 assists in 2018.
FC Dallas is set to face Cincinnati on May 28. In response to losing Acosta, Cincinnati is reportedly exploring options to bring in Brazilian player Evander from the Portland Timbers.
“Lucho has been an outstanding player for this club,” expressed Cincinnati general manager Chris Albright. “He has played a significant role in the growth and success of FC Cincinnati. Our focus now will be to swiftly replace him with another player who possesses elite talent and strong character.”
