Transfer Tracker

Reports: Brian Rodriguez, Ezequiel Barco linked to Brazilian Serie A loans

TRANSFER_B-ROD-BARCO

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Reports

Brazilian Serie A side Internacional reportedly have LAFC forward Brian Rodriguez and Atlanta United midfielder Ezequiel Barco on their transfer wish list.

It’s unclear if Inter’s intent is to sign one of the attackers, or if they're keen to land both, with both offers reportedly one-year loan deals with purchase options.

According to reports out of Brazil, Rodriguez is enticed by the offer but is also weighing interest from Europe. Last year, the 21-year-old Uruguayan international was loaned to Spanish second-division club UD Almeria.

Rodriguez was signed by LAFC as a Young Designated Player in August 2019 from Peñarol, following in the footsteps of Diego Rossi. Rodriguez has scored six goals and added nine assists across 41 MLS regular-season games.

Barco’s departure from Atlanta United has been long-rumored, as has their reported signing of 20-year-old midfielder Thiago Almada from Velez Sarsfield.

Should Almada arrive this transfer window, the Five Stripes would need to shed a Designated Player. And with striker Josef Martinez and winger Luiz Araujo holding DP status as well, Barco could be on the outs.

The 22-year-old, who has been loosely linked with European clubs during his time with Atlanta, has 17g/17a in 81 MLS regular-season appearances.

Barco was signed from Argentine squad Independiente in January 2018 for a then-MLS record transfer fee of $15 million.