Los Angeles FC has secured a significant coup in the transfer market, bringing Turkish international Cengiz Ünder to Major League Soccer on an 18-month loan deal from Fenerbahçe, with an eye-catching purchase option that could shatter MLS transfer records.
The deal structure sees LAFC paying a €1.2 million loan fee while sharing the burden of Ünder's €2.5 million annual salary. The California-based club holds a €25 million purchase option, which if exercised, would establish a new MLS transfer record.
LAFC's front office expressed enthusiasm about their latest acquisition, with John Thorrington highlighting Ünder's international pedigree and attacking prowess. The 26-year-old winger brings experience from elite European competitions, though his recent form has shown considerable fluctuation.
Ünder's career trajectory presents an intriguing narrative of peaks and valleys. His stint at Marseille exemplified this pattern, where a stellar 2021/22 season with ten goals was followed by a diminished performance the following year. His limited appearances for Fenerbahçe this season - just nine matches - suggest a player seeking rejuvenation.
Turkish football expert Lara Karacan offers insight into Ünder's capabilities, describing him as a gifted left-footed attacker with exceptional shooting range and crossing ability. However, questions about consistency and motivation persist.
For LAFC, the loan arrangement minimizes risk while potentially filling the offensive void left by Mateusz Bogusz's departure. The club's willingness to consider a record-breaking permanent transfer will likely depend on Ünder's performance during his loan spell in Los Angeles.
