Atlanta United addressed a key roster need Dec. 22, signing experienced Argentine goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos to a contract through the 2026 season with options extending through 2027-28.
The 36-year-old arrives on a free transfer from Newell’s Old Boys, where he spent the last three seasons making 63 appearances across all competitions. The signing fills a critical gap for Atlanta, which currently lists only Jayden Hibbert at the goalkeeper position on its roster, after Brad Guzan retired earlier this year.
“We’re pleased to sign Lucas and look forward to welcoming him to the club,” said Chris Henderson, Atlanta United’s Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director. “He’s a goalkeeper with a lot of experience in South America and a leader of the backline who is familiar with [Atlanta United Head Coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino ]’s style of play.”
The veteran keeper brings a significant pedigree to MLS, having accumulated 341 career appearances and 135 clean sheets throughout his career in Argentina’s top divisions and continental competitions. His resume includes deep runs in both Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana, South America’s premier club tournaments.
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Hoyos was with Vélez Sarsfield from 2018-2022, where he served as captain and made 137 appearances. During that period, he helped guide the Buenos Aires club to a third-place finish in the 2019-2020 Superliga and the semifinals of the 2022 Copa Libertadores.
Henderson emphasized that Hoyos will “bring competition and leadership to our young goalkeeping group,” suggesting Atlanta plans additional moves at the position as the club continues its offseason roster reconstruction.
The signing remains pending receipt of Hoyos’s International Transfer Certificate and P-1 Visa. Once finalized, he will occupy an international roster spot for the Five Stripes.