MADRID (AP) – Atlético Madrid reached an agreement on Monday to transfer Mexican midfielder Obed Vargas from the Seattle Sounders.
Atlético announced that Vargas, a 20-year-old Alaskan-born naturalized Mexican, has signed a contract with the Spanish club until 2030.
Vargas, a product of the Sounders’ youth organization, made his Major League Soccer debut in 2021, making him the third-youngest player to play in the tournament.
“This is a great opportunity for Obed and a proud moment for Sounders FC,” Seattle general manager Craig Weibel said.
According to the Sounders, Vargas joined the youth organization in 2019 and has spent the past five seasons with the first team, appearing in 130 games and registering eight goals and 16 assists. He contributed to winning the 2022 CONCACAF Champions Cup and the 2025 Leagues Cup.
“Since joining our academy in 2019, Obed has shown maturity, professionalism and a commitment to developing as a player,” Waibel said. “We look forward to watching him take his next step.”
Neither club disclosed Vargas’ transfer fee, but the Sounders said the contract includes a sale fee should Vargas move in the future.
Atletico also officially announced the signing of 28-year-old Nigerian international forward Ademola Lookman from Atalanta.
Diego Simeone’s side previously sold midfielder Conor Gallagher to Tottenham and released Giacomo Raspadori to Atalanta.
Barcelona brought back full-back Joao Cancelo on loan from Al Hilal, while veteran goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who lost his starting spot to João Garcia, was loaned to fellow Catalan club Girona.
Real Madrid remained silent, the only deal being the loan of Endrick to Lyon.
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