Gaitán Officially Signs With The Fire

It’s official!

Per an announcement from the club this afternoon, Argentine midfielder Nicolás Gaitán has signed with the Chicago Fire.

The former Boca Juniors, Benfica, and Atlético Madrid attacker was acquired by Chicago on a free transfer from Chinese Super League club Dalian Yifang. Per the club’s press release, the 31-year-old’s salary will be covered by Targeted Allocation Money and Discretionary Targeted Allocation Money. Gaitán is signed through the 2019 season with a club option for 2020.

Fire GM and president Nelson Rodriguez praised the incoming attacking midfielder.

“We have wanted to add another attacking piece and believe Nico’s dynamism and play-making ability could be a perfect fit,” Rodriguez said.

Gaitán has 16 caps for Argentina, making his debut in 2009 but finding himself out of favor under former manager Alejandro Sabella. Under former Atlanta United head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino, Gaitán was welcomed back into the player pool. He has not made an appearance for Argentina since 2016.

Fire head coach Veljko Paunovic sounded very excited to add another piece to the attack.

“Nicolás is a player that can destabilize any defense in this league,” Paunovic said. “He has an enormous amount of talent and is still in his prime. We’re eager to get the most out of his attacking creativity.”

Gaitán will officially join the squad once his P-1 Visa and ITC are processed.

How are you feeling about the announcement? Excited? Relieved? Let us know in the comments below!