New Major League Soccer franchise Atlanta United have confirmed they have triggered a clause in Josef Martinez’s loan deal from Serie A side Torino to make the switch permanent.
Atlanta initially secured Martinez’s services in February on a season-long loan deal but the Venezuela international’s quick start to life in MLS has already convinced Gerardo Martino’s side to secure his long-term services.
The 23-year-old’s form in front of goal has been integral behind Atlanta’s positive start to their first ever season in MLS and Martino will now hope the former Torino striker can continue to fire the club to further success.
“The loan deal had an option to make the transfer permanent which we have now triggered as planned,” Atlanta United president Darren Eales told the club’s official website. “Josef has been a fantastic addition to our club and it’s clear he has the ability to continuing making an impact in our league.”
Two wins from their opening three regular season matches has fired Atlanta top of the Eastern Conference thanks to their far superior goal difference. Much of that is due to Martinez, who is the league’s top goalscorer (5). Furthermore, only San Jose Earthquake’s midfielder Anibal Godoy (8.38) has a higher WhoScored rating in MLS than Martinez this season (8.36).
For more stats on Josef Martinez, click here to visit his WhoScored player page
