Villarreal dips into MLS talent pool again to land American starlet Alex Freeman
The Yellow Submarine secures promising 21-year-old right-back Alex Freeman from Orlando City in a deal worth €3.2 million, continuing their history of American acquisitions.
Villarreal continues their American shopping spree with the capture of highly-rated young defender Alex Freeman from Orlando City, signing him to a massive eight-year contract running until 2032.
Deal Details
The Yellow Submarine has splashed approximately €3.2 million to secure Freeman’s services, with potential add-ons that could bump the fee up by another €2 million if certain ambitious objectives are met – including trophy wins. This represents quite the investment in the 21-year-old right-back who’s been on Villarreal’s radar for some time.
In fact, the Castellón club tried to get their man last summer, but Orlando City weren’t having any of it, digging their heels in and refusing to sanction a move. Persistence pays off though, and Villarreal have finally got their target.
Rising Star
Freeman’s credentials are proper impressive:
- Already a full international for the USA
- Set to feature in this summer’s World Cup
- Recently named MLS Young Player of the Year
The youngster looks a proper talent and Villarreal have moved swiftly to secure his signature on a long-term deal, showing their commitment to building for both present and future.
American Connection
This ain’t Villarreal’s first rodeo when it comes to fishing in American waters. Just last summer, they brought in Tani Oluwaseyi from Minnesota United, another MLS outfit.
The Spanish side were actually pioneers in bringing high-profile American talent to La Liga, dating back to 2008 when they splashed out nearly €8 million on Jozy Altidore – a record fee for an MLS player at that time.
Freeman now joins this tradition of American imports at the Estadio de la Cerámica, and the club will be hoping he can make an immediate impact as they look to climb the table in the second half of the season.
With his combination of athleticism, technical ability, and international experience despite his young age, Freeman could turn out to be a right Bobby Dazzler for the Yellow Submarine in the coming years.