Luciano Acosta has completed his move to Brazilian club Fluminense after just six months with FC Dallas. The 2023 MLS MVP leaves the Texas side in a deal worth $4 million plus performance-based add-ons, significantly less than the $5 million (plus $1m in add-ons) Dallas paid to acquire him from FC Cincinnati earlier this year.
"Signing Lucho Acosta was a calculated move for our club, and we were excited about what he could bring to FC Dallas," – FC Dallas president Dan Hunt explained in the club's official statement. "His legacy in MLS is undeniable, and while this chapter was shorter than we imagined, we respect Lucho's desire to be closer to home."
The 31-year-old Argentine playmaker had made no secret of his preference for a South American move even before joining FC Dallas in February 2025. During his brief stint in Texas, Acosta managed to score seven goals and provide two assists across 23 appearances in all competitions.
Interestingly, this transfer likely closes the door on Acosta's potential international future with the United States. Just last month, the midfielder had discussions with Mauricio Pochettino, the US men's national team coach, about possibly representing the Stars and Stripes.
André Zanotta, FC Dallas chief soccer officer, emphasized the strategic aspect of the deal: "This transfer opens both roster and financial flexibility. We remain committed to building a squad that aligns with our long-term vision: dynamic, competitive, and committed to our style of play."
The timing is notable. Dallas now has room to maneuver in the transfer market while it remains open, though they failed to recoup their initial investment in Acosta. Was the six-month Acosta experiment worth it for the Texas club? The scoreboard shows seven goals, but the financial books show a loss.
For Acosta, the move finally fulfills his desire to return closer to his South American roots after being one of MLS's standout performers in recent years.
