Facundo Torres, winger for the Uruguay national team, has officially joined Austin FC on a designated player contract that extends through 2030, as announced by the MLS club on Friday.
Torres joins Austin on a permanent move from Brazilian side Palmeiras for a transfer fee of $9.5 million, according to sources from ESPN Brasil.
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Austin’s management confirmed that the contract includes an option for the 2030-31 season.
“I am thrilled to become an Austin FC player,” Torres expressed in a statement. “The club’s ambitious vision and the vibrant soccer community played significant roles in my decision to make this move.”
The 25-year-old Torres previously spent three seasons with Orlando City in MLS from 2022 to 2024, where he tallied 47 goals and 25 assists. Holding a U.S. green card, he will not count against the international roster limit.
“Facundo brings significant attacking prowess, as evidenced by his impressive goal and assist statistics throughout his career,” said Austin FC sporting director Rodolfo Borrell. “He is at a prime age to join us and should be a key player as we strive for success this season.”
Austin FC finished sixth in the Western Conference last season but was eliminated in the first round by LAFC. The team will begin its 2026 campaign at home against Minnesota United on February 21.
Contributions to this report were made by ESPN’s Francisco De Laurentiis and The Associated Press.