Darwin Quintero arrives in Minneapolis ahead of reported move

Darwin Quintero - playing for Club America - arms out, mouth open

Just how close is Darwin Quintero to signing with Minnesota United FC?


He’s already landed in town.

The 30-year-old Colombian striker, who is reportedly set to become the Loons first Designated Player, arrived at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport Wednesday night and was greeted by a welcoming party of Minnesota fans. They chanted his name and took selfies with Quintero, who posed with a Loons scarf after making the move from Club América in Liga MX.

Then, on Thursday morning, Minnesota captain Francisco Calvo shared a photo of himself and Miguel Ibarra with Quintero in the team's locker room:

Earlier this month, MLSsoccer.com National Writer Paul Tenorio reported Minnesota brass flew to Panama to scout Quintero in Concacaf Champions League action. Things then began to heat up over the weekend when The Athletic's Jeff Rueter reported on Sunday that the club and player had agreed to terms.


Quintero was a standout over six seasons with Liga MX side Santos Laguna, scoring 66 league goals there between 2008 and 2014. He also hit 12 league goals across the 2015-2016 season in Mexico with América, but has not produced as often recently.