Atlanta United star Thiago Almada admits it is his ‘dream’ to play in Europe as MLS Young Player of the Year hints at a potential transfer: ‘I will look at what my options are’

Atlanta United‘s World Cup-winning midfielder Thiago Almada has hinted at a potential move to Europe following the MLS postseason. 

Almada, who made one appearance for Argentina in their successful World Cup campaign last year, has been linked with a number of European clubs following his impressive regular season with Atalanta, which saw him register 12 goals in 32 appearances.

The 22-year-old was named MLS Young Player of the Year as a result, and amid links with the likes of Dutch giants Ajax he opened up on his plans for 2024 in an interview with TyC Sports. 

‘I want to finish the season first and than think about the future,’ Almada said. ‘In January I will look at what my options are. 

‘It’s my dream to play in Europe and I hope it comes true.’ 

Almada was part of the Argentina team that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar

Whether or not Almada has been in contact with teams in Europe is still in question. Yet Ajax, who were linked with Almada over the summer, have emerged as a potential landing spot. 

In August, The Athletic reported that Ajax reached out to Atlanta about Almada’s availability. However, the conversations did not lead to a closed-deal and Ajax ended up signing Georges Mikautadze from French side Metz.

Almada joined Atlanta United from Velez Sarsfield in December of 2021. Two seasons into his MLS career, he has scored 17 goals in 59 appearances. 

The forward was recently crowned MLS Young Player of the Year for his stellar season with Atlanta. So far this year, Almada has eight goals and 10 assists across all competitions. 

The five stripes ended the regular season with a 13-12-9 (W-D-L) record for a sixth-place finish. 

Atlanta currently trail the Columbus Crew in a best-of-three MLS Playoffs series with Game 2 set for Tuesday night. 

Outside MLS, Almada has made four appearances and scored a goal for Argentina’s senior team.