NYCFC has limited time to sign more players and they need a scoring forward | OneFootball

New York City FC was in an okay spot to start the season. Two games ago, they were 2-1-2. Now, the team is 2-3-2 after two losses in a row. Mistakes caused the loss against Atlanta United FC, but offensive issues and the inability to be threatening in their own home led to the loss against Minnesota United FC.

Additionally, the lack of depth in some areas is very visible. NYCFC has a few talented young and less experienced players, and fans have already seen what Nico Cavallo and Jonathan Shore can do. However, the Bronx side still needs a few more players. It was spoken about how they should sign another defender, but they also desperately need another goal scorer.

As mentioned, the Pigeons struggled against Minnesota. Alonso Martínez did not play his best game, and failed to convert a penalty kick. NYCFC relies on his scoring abilities, and truthfully, they rely on him way too much. Plus, Mounsef Bakrar still struggles to score goals. The club also does not know what they will get from their wingers every week. Hannes Wolf has had a few solid games so far in 2025 and Julián Fernández has turned into a starter. Nobody, including those who come off the bench, has been consistent.

NYCFC needs a goal scorer

Therefore, NYCFC cannot wait until the summer to sign another forward. They need someone who can score, either a striker or a winger. They need to be able to do so either as a starter or a bench player.

The issue at hand though is that the Major League Soccer transfer window closes in a few weeks on Wednesday, April 23. Time is ticking, and the Boys in Blue are running out of time.

Now, they do not necessarily need to sign a Designated Player or trade for a bigger name. There will be more options for that during the summer transfer window. The team needs someone who can elevate the attack and score goals when the others cannot. Of course, a talented and known forward would still be great. What are the options at this time?

NYCFC could look outside of MLS. While many transfer windows are closed, some are still open. In addition, players could terminate their contracts elsewhere to join teams in MLS.

A better option though would be to find someone within the league and either trade for someone or use the new cash transaction method, cash for players. This was used on Wednesday when the Columbus Crew reportedly utilized this method to acquire Dániel Gazdag. Why has NYCFC not done the same?

Truthfully, it is unknown who the team would sign. Gazdag came out of nowhere for the Crew, so perhaps the Boys in Blue could convince a player and team to make such a deal. A regular trade is also possible, and the Pigeons could use General Allocation Money so they do not have to give up a player.

Regardless of the method, NYCFC must bring in a player who can score. They need a winger or striker, but that does not dismantle the need for a number 10 in any way. That move should be one that the club takes their time with, for the new player will be the eventual replacement for Maxi Moralez. But for now, a forward is needed before the primary transfer window closes.