UPDATE (7 pm ET): Nashville have confirmed the signing of Ake Loba via a transfer from CF Monterrey of Liga MX. In addition, Nashville have traded $230,000 in General Allocation Money with the Portland Timbers for an international roster spot.
Nashville SC have acquired forward Ake Loba from CF Monterrey for a club-record $6.8 million, sources tell MLSsoccer.com. Monterrey will retain a sell-on clause on the forward.
Nashville still held Loba’s discovery rights, dating back to their long-standing pursuit of the forward. Nashville attempted to acquire him ahead of their inaugural 2020 season, though he ultimately joined Monterrey for a reported $9 million.
Loba, 23, had seven goals in 27 appearances (16 starts) during his time with the Liga MX giants. He scored against Columbus Crew in an April Concacaf Champions League match. Prior to joining Monterrey, he excelled on loan in Mexico with Queretaro FC, with 11 goals and two assists in 41 appearances.
The Ivory Coast native is a natural center forward though can play on either wing. Loba is the third Designated Player on Nashville's squad, alongside Jhonder Cadiz and Hany Mukhtar.
Nashville have enjoyed a fast start to 2021, losing just once in their opening 11 matches, sitting 4th place in the Eastern Conference.
