-
Jeff Carlisle
Atlanta United has finalized a permanent transfer deal for Adrian Gill, a U.S. youth international, from Barcelona, as confirmed by both teams.
The agreement lasts until June 2027, with an option to extend through the 2029-30 season, pending the acquisition of Gill’s International Transfer Certificate (ITC).
Chris Henderson, Atlanta’s chief soccer officer and sporting director, expressed enthusiasm about the signing: “Adrian is a young midfielder who has gained valuable experience in the U.S. youth national teams and has progressed through one of the top academies globally at Barcelona. We are excited to have him join the club and strengthen our midfield competition.”
Barcelona also released a statement: “FC Barcelona and Atlanta United have agreed on the transfer of player Adrian Simon Gill. The club retains a percentage of any future sale involving the American midfielder.”
The 20-year-old Gill is anticipated to occupy a supplemental roster position with Atlanta, meaning his salary will not impact the club’s salary cap.
Since October, Gill had been on loan with UE Cornellà, competing in Spain’s fifth division after previously playing for Barcelona’s B team in the fourth division.
Born in Denver, Colorado, Gill joined Barcelona’s academy in 2018 after starting his development at Cornellà’s youth system.
His rapid development saw him sign a professional contract in 2022. However, an ACL injury in September 2023 has hindered his progress.
Last August, Barcelona extended Gill’s contract until 2026.
As a versatile player, Gill primarily plays as a midfielder but has also performed as a fullback.
Internationally, Gill participated in the U.S. squad during the 2023 Concacaf U17 Championships, appearing in seven matches. However, he was unable to join the U17 World Cup team due to his knee injury. He is also eligible to represent Spain.
Despite Gill’s departure, the U.S. national team will still have representation at Barcelona through goalkeeper Diego Kochen, a 19-year-old who has yet to make his first-team debut but has been included in senior matchday squads.
The information in this report includes contributions from Jeff Carlisle and Sam Marsden.