D.C. United's Major Move: Acquiring Romanian Striker Louis Munteanu
D.C. United's potential club-record signing of Romanian international forward Louis Munteanu from CFR Cluj is shaking up the MLS landscape, boasting a deal worth up to $10 million. Learn more about this pivotal move and the team's roster overhaul.
D.C. United are nearing a club-record signing as the MLS side finalizes a deal worth around $7 million plus add-ons to acquire Romanian international forward Louis Munteanu from CFR Cluj, according to The Athletic. The move could reach $10 million and would mark a cornerstone addition as the club undergoes a major roster overhaul ahead of the new season.Munteanu, 23, has registered two goals and five assists in 14 league appearances for Cluj this season. Previously, he was signed by Fiorentina at the age of 18 but never featured for the Italian club’s first team, instead gaining experience through loan spells in Romania.The striker had already attracted interest from European clubs, including Valencia, both last summer and again in recent weeks, making D.C. United’s reported move notable as they secure a player still viewed as capable of competing at a high level in Europe.D.C. United are in the middle of a significant rebuild after finishing last in MLS with 26 points. In addition to progressing on the Munteanu deal, the club has signed Japanese left back Keisuke Kurokawa from Gamba Osaka, added forward Tai Baribo from the Philadelphia Union for $4 million, and brought in veteran goalkeeper Sean Johnson.The club also traded for center back Sean Nealis from the New York Red Bulls and selected Nikola Markovic with the No. 1 overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft. Baribo occupies one of D.C.’s Designated Player slots, with Munteanu expected to fill another.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingD.C. declined the contract option of Belgian striker Christian Benteke, the 2024 MLS Golden Boot winner, leaving the club’s new-look attack set to revolve around Munteanu, Baribo, and summer signing Caden Clark as the rebuild continues.
D.C. United Nearing a Transformative Deal
D.C. United's reported pursuit of Louis Munteanu signifies a major statement of intent for the team as they seek to bounce back from a disappointing season. The potential $10 million deal, though structured around an initial $7 million, showcases the club's readiness to invest in top talent.
Munteanu's Profile and European Interest
At just 23 years old, Louis Munteanu brings a promising track record from his time at CFR Cluj, hinting at his potential to make a significant impact in Major League Soccer. His past connection with European clubs like Fiorentina and Valencia underlines his pedigree, making D.C. United's move a notable coup.
D.C. United's Roster Revamp
As D.C. United undergoes a comprehensive refurbishment, the addition of Munteanu alongside other key signings like Keisuke Kurokawa and Tai Baribo sets the stage for an exciting new chapter. With a blend of up-and-coming talents and experienced veterans, the team aims to emerge as a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming campaign.
Stakes in the MLS Rebuild
With transformative moves in the transfer market and a strategic shift in roster composition, D.C. United is poised for a resurgence. The decision to let go of Christian Benteke, a former MLS Golden Boot winner, underscores the club's commitment to reshaping its attacking lineup around dynamic talents like Munteanu and Baribo.






