Football

FC Cincinnati Sets MLS Transfer Record to Sign Player

Published

4 days ago

February 18, 2025

FC Cincinnati is preparing for a season of significant changes while maintaining its ambitions as a top contender in the Eastern Conference.

The club took another bold step on Monday by acquiring Brazilian midfielder Evander from the Portland Timbers in a record-setting deal. The transfer, completed through Major League Soccer’s newly implemented ‘cash for players’ trade mechanism, came with a $12 million price tag — the highest ever for an intra-MLS transaction.

The terms of the deal include Portland retaining a percentage of any potential future sale or trade of Evander, with an additional $150,000 possible if certain performance-based conditions are met.

Evander, 26, enjoyed a standout 2023 season, delivering 15 goals and a league-best 19 assists across 28 matches, 27 of which were starts. His 34 total goal contributions placed him second in MLS, just behind Lionel Messi’s 36 for Inter Miami. The Brazilian midfielder’s efforts earned him MLS All-Star recognition, a finalist spot for league MVP, and inclusion in the MLS Best XI.

“I’m really happy, and I’m looking forward to the start of the season,” Evander said. “I’m looking forward to meeting up with the fans. I’m here to help. I’m here to do my best for the club and hopefully win some trophies.”

Evander’s arrival in Cincinnati follows the recent departure of Luciano Acosta, who was traded to FC Dallas for $5 million. The Brazilian is expected to fill the creative void left by Acosta in the team’s midfield.

Meanwhile, the Timbers moved swiftly to address Evander’s exit, signing Portuguese midfielder David Da Costa from French club RC Lens. Portland reportedly paid $6 million to secure the 24-year-old, who joins on a designated player contract that runs through 2028, with a club option for 2029. Da Costa recorded 11 goals and 17 assists over 123 appearances in four Ligue 1 seasons with Lens.

Cincinnati will open its MLS campaign at home against Toronto FC on March 8. Evander and his new team will visit Toronto on May 14, while the Timbers are set to play at BMO Field on June 28.