KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Sporting Kansas City has officially signed Brazilian forward André Luiz as a designated player, securing him on a five-year deal for a club-record transfer fee from Greek club Olympiacos.
According to a source who spoke with ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle, SKC will pay Olympiacos $18 million. This marks a significant increase from the previous record of $7.5 million paid to Mexican club Chivas for Alan Pulido. The transfer for Luiz is contingent upon obtaining his visa and international transfer certificate.
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David Lee, president of soccer operations for Sporting KC, expressed enthusiasm about the signing: “André is a dynamic player known for his speed, direct play, and technical skills. He recently enjoyed a fantastic season in both Portugal and Greece. At just 24, he aligns perfectly with our strategy of adding talented players who are still in their prime. André was sought after by top leagues globally, so we are thrilled he has chosen to commit his future to Sporting KC.”
Luiz recently had a breakthrough season, starting in Portugal where he scored seven goals and provided six assists for Rio Ave. He transferred to Olympiacos last January, contributing to the club’s second-place finish in Greece’s top league.
Luiz’s career began at America Football Club in Rio de Janeiro, followed by his tenure in Flamengo’s academy, which led to a spot on the professional team. He spent the 2023-2024 season on loan at Portuguese club Estrela before being signed by Rio Ave in January 2025.
Sporting KC, currently struggling at 4-2-13 and sitting last in the Western Conference, is undergoing a significant rebuilding process under new principal owner Peter Mallouk. This includes new front-office leadership working alongside first-year head coach Raphael Wicky, as well as several ambitious roster changes, highlighted by their pursuit of Egyptian star Mohamed Salah.
This report includes contributions from ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle and The Associated Press.