Acosta to Fluminense: FC Dallas Transfer Confirmed | $4M Deal

FC Dallas Transfers 2023 MLS MVP luciano Acosta to Fluminense

A deal worth $4 million (€3.4m) plus add-ons will send the highly sought-after playmaker to the Brazilian top flight, just six months after his arrival in Texas.

FC Dallas has agreed to transfer luciano Acosta, the reigning 2023 MLS MVP, to Brazilian club Fluminense.The move comes as a surprise given Acosta’s recent acquisition, but club officials cite roster and financial flexibility as key drivers behind the decision.

A Short-Lived Stint in Texas

dallas acquired acosta in February 2025 in a important cash-for-player trade with FC Cincinnati, valued at $5 million plus $1 million in add-ons (€5.85 million). Despite a relatively brief tenure, Acosta made a notable impact, scoring seven goals and providing two assists in 23 games across all competitions. Tho, his desire to move to South America predates his time in Dallas.

“Signing Lucho Acosta was a calculated move for our club, and we were excited about what he could bring to FC dallas,” a club representative stated. “His legacy in MLS is undeniable, and while this chapter was shorter than we imagined, we respect Lucho’s desire to be closer to home and thank him for his contributions this season.”

Did you know?–Luciano Acosta‘s seven goals for FC Dallas were a significant contribution despite his short time with the club, showcasing his immediate impact on the field.

Previous Pursuit of a South American Move

Prior to joining FC Dallas, Acosta had expressed a strong preference for a move to South America, with Boca Juniors reportedly among the interested clubs. That transfer never materialized, leading to the trade with Cincinnati. The playmaker’s continued desire to return to the continent ultimately influenced Dallas’ decision to facilitate his departure.

Roster Flexibility and Financial Considerations

The sale of Acosta provides FC Dallas with crucial flexibility as they look to reshape their roster. The club had previously moved on from Alan Velasco (to Boca) and Jesús Ferreira (to Seattle) last winter, creating a need for attacking reinforcements.

“This transfer opens both roster and financial flexibility,” explained a senior club official. “We remain committed to building a squad that aligns with our long-term vision: dynamic, competitive, and committed to our style of play. We’re focused on making smart additions that elevate our team and reflect the ambition of this club.”

Despite not recouping the full transfer fee paid to Cincinnati, the club believes the possibility to rebuild and strengthen the squad outweighs the financial loss.

Pro tip:-MLS teams often use player sales to create roster space and financial resources for new acquisitions, a common practice in the league.

Implications for the US men’s National Team

Acosta had recently engaged in discussions with US men’s national team coach Mauricio pochettino regarding the possibility of representing the United States.However, the transfer to Brazil likely ends those prospects, as Acosta prioritizes a return to South America.

The move underscores the challenges MLS teams face in retaining top talent when players have aspirations to play in other leagues, particularly in South America and Europe.

reader question:-Do you think MLS can compete financially with top leagues in South America and Europe to keep its star players?

Why did this transfer happen? Luciano acosta was transferred due to his long-held desire to play in South America,combined with FC Dallas’s need for roster and financial flexibility following previous player sales.Who was involved? The key players were Luciano Acosta (the player), FC Dallas (selling club), and Fluminense (buying club). USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino was also involved through discussions about Acosta perhaps switching national alleg