Atlanta United transfers Giorgos Giakoumakis to Cruz Azul

TRANSFER MONITORING STATUS: Transfer

The Greek international is leaving for $10 million, opening up a Designated Player spot as Atlanta enters the summer transfer window (July 18-August 14).

Giakoumakis, 29, has 24 goals and seven assists in 43 matches in all competitions for Atlanta. He initially joined Celtic FC in Scotland in February 2023, earning All-Star, Best XI and Newcomer of the Year honors last year while helping replace club legend Josef Martínez.

“We are grateful for Giorgos’ contributions during his time at the club and wish him the best for the future,” Atlanta vice president and technical director Carlos Bocanegra said in a statement.

“This transfer illustrates the nature of operating in a global market. With a lot of season left, we plan to strengthen the group during the next summer transfer window.

With Giakoumakis leaving, Atlanta has veterans Jamal Thiaré and Daniel Ríos as attackers. The Five Stripes are 13th in the Eastern Conference and are looking for a new manager after parting ways with Gonzalo Pineda in early June.