Orlando City on the Verge of Signing Atuesta from Palmeiras | OneFootball

Looks like Orlando City is about to make a big move in the transfer market. Rumor has it, they’re just one step away from locking in Eduard Atuesta, the 27-year-old Colombian defensive midfielder currently with Palmeiras. And trust me, this isn’t just any player. Atuesta’s got a solid resume from his time at LAFC, where he made a real name for himself in Major League Soccer. He’s no stranger to the field, the synthetic grass, or the fast pace of the MLS. Could he be on his way back to take control of Orlando’s midfield and make his mark with the purple kit?

Palmeiras has a star-studded squad, with plenty of depth to spare. Atuesta, who came to the team with high expectations, ended up playing more of a backup role. It happens, right? But Orlando City is on the lookout for someone to own that midfield – someone who can pass with precision and set up their forwards with those sweet, pinpoint balls. This potential deal? It’s got "win-win" written all over it. Atuesta gets to return to a league he knows like the back of his hand, and Orlando picks up a player with the technical ability and smarts that the MLS sometimes lacks.

Atuesta is the kind of player who keeps the gears turning. He’s not just a tackler. He’s got that vision to orchestrate the game and move the ball with purpose. At LAFC, he was a key piece in an offense-heavy, well-organized squad. Over time, he earned the respect of both fans and opponents alike.

MLS is becoming an increasingly appealing destination for players who want international exposure, but also a more manageable lifestyle compared to the chaos of South American leagues. Orlando City has the structure, a loyal fanbase, and a hunger for titles. So yeah, for Atuesta, this move makes perfect sense. Plus, the pressure at Palmeiras? It’s insane. It’s tough to shine when every bad touch is under the microscope and every win feels like a must.

The impact at Orlando City could be immediate. They need a technical leader in the middle of the park, someone who can hold the ball, set the tempo, and calm the nerves in high-stakes matches. Atuesta fits that role. Of course, nobody’s saying he’s going to be the next Messi, but could he take the team to the next level? Absolutely.

Orlando City isn’t messing around. Signing a player with international experience and a successful stint at LAFC shows they’re all in. While other clubs are bringing in aging European stars, Orlando is betting on players who still have plenty of gas in the tank.

Sure, it’s not all smooth sailing. The physical side of things is always a question mark. Atuesta needs to be in top shape to justify this move. And getting used to the coach’s system might take a little while. But honestly? If he can even come close to replicating what he did at LAFC, Orlando fans might just have reason to dream big.