The soccer transfer market is hot, and Orlando City doesn't waste any time. The club is close to announcing the signing of 20-year-old Colombian forward Nicolás Rodríguez, who currently plays for Fortaleza CEIF. This comes from the pen of journalist Pipe Sierra, who reported that the parties are already exchanging documents and the signing of the contract in the United States is all but imminent.
Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).
Who is Nicolás Rodríguez?
Little-known outside of South America, Nicolás Rodríguez is fast becoming one of the most exciting Colombian prospects in soccer. A left-footed winger who impresses on the right-hand side, Rodríguez came through the youth system at Fortaleza CEIF before making his professional debut in 2021. He played 42 games last season, scoring eight and assisting five.
He is versatile enough to play in different positions in the offensive line, which can add an element of creativity and dynamism to any team he represents. Little wonder six clubs were in for his signature, including Brazilian club Internacional, which lost out in the race.
Filling the void left by Facundo Torres
Orlando City’s interest in Nicolás Rodríguez isn’t coincidental. Ever since Facundo Torres was sold to Palmeiras, the club has faced mounting pressure to strengthen its attack.
Rodríguez arrives with the task of filling that gap — and maybe overstepping the expectations. Comparisons between the two players are inevitable, but Nicolás brings unique traits that could redefine Orlando City's offensive strategy. His ability to operate as a winger or in more central positions makes him a true wildcard for head coach Óscar Pareja.
Details of the deal
It has been reported that Fortaleza CEIF established a price of $3 million for 70% of Rodríguez's economic rights, but the exact details of the deal have not been disclosed. If signed under those conditions, the transfer would be a big investment from Orlando City, which seems willing to go all in on the youngster's potential.
This fits well into the club's philosophy of nurturing young, talented players into the backbone for a competitive MLS campaign. Rodríguez is cut from the exact cloth: young, talented, and with a sky-high ceiling.
What to expect from Nicolás Rodríguez at Orlando City
Signing South American prospects has become a common strategy for MLS clubs, and Nicolás Rodríguez perfectly epitomizes the reason behind this formula working so well. At 20, he's far from reaching his peak, but already displays a level of maturity that stands out. His ability as a winger, added to his flexibility to adapt to other attacking roles, will be an important tactical weapon for Orlando City.
A masterstroke in the market?
Notably, the acquisition of Nicolás Rodríguez demonstrates Orlando City's cunning in the transfer market as well. The ability to outmaneuver other clubs from multiple countries, which included Internacional as one of Brazil's heavyweights in soccer, and to win the negotiations was quite remarkable. Further, it pinpoints the club's status as a growing force, both in MLS and internationally.