Austin FC smashes transfer record with $12.3m deal and eyes MLS dominance | OneFootball

Austin FC's daring transfer market moves bring publicity and a glimpse into the club's seriousness about improving its position in MLS. This very month, following the acquisition of the 29-year-old Albanian forward Myrto Uzuni for an impressive $12.3 million, Verde & Black has broken their transfer fee record for the second time. Uzuni will join an updated roster full of expectation, fitting into Austin FC's plans.

The arrival of Uzuni is a turning point. Signed through 2027, with an option for 2028, the forward is not just a gamble but proof that Austin FC intend to aim for the top. His resume does impress: the all-time leading scorer for Granada CF with 49 goals in 106 matches, and the standout in LaLiga 2 this season with 14 goals in just 18 games. Also, Uzuni has experiences in various European leagues and netted five times in 38 matches with the Albanian national team. He's a player with experience, versatility, and above all, one with the flair to score.

Playing for clubs in Albania, Croatia, Hungary, and Spain, Uzuni has built a solid career marked by consistency and adaptability. He’s the kind of player who brings value both on and off the field, as he highlighted himself: “I’m here to break records.” The forward’s confidence in his ability to make a difference already resonates with Austin’s fans, who are looking for idols to lead the team to glory.

Roster impact

With Uzuni, Austin FC is not only strong in its attacking sector but reshapes its attacking lines. He is joined by American forward Brandon Vazquez and Ghanaian winger Osman Bukari, this trio represents a perfect mix of youth, international experience, and technical ability. It would be fair to point out that recent signings do have one common thread: the penchant for players who can bring in not just talent but ambition for growth and immediate impact.

The reshuffle in attack was actually overdue. After releasing Gyasi Zardes and losing Sebastián Driussi to River Plate, the club was bound to find solutions that not only plugged a hole but made the team better than before. Club sporting director Rodolfo Borrell did his part-very aggressive investments in players that promise to put an end to offensive issues, as underlined by him: "Uzuni brings high work rate, finishing ability, and versatility.”

Nico Estévez and the new Austin

The arrival of Uzuni can't be separated from the job of new head coach Nico Estévez. With an attack revitalized, Estévez will have in his hands the mission of building a team that doesn't just score, but also is balanced and competitive to fight for a spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs. Since 2022, Austin FC has failed to reach the postseason, something the front office and fans don't want to repeat.

First big test of this new era, February 22 sees them go into action in the season opener of 2025 against Sporting Kansas City.