Atlanta United sign veteran forward Sergio Santos

The 31-year-old Brazilian joins the club on a free transfer through 2026 with an option for 2027.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Atlanta United have signed veteran forward Sergio Santos via free agency, the club announced on Wednesday. Santos, a 31-year-old Brazilian, has seven years of MLS experience and will be under contract with Atlanta through the 2026 season with an option for 2027.

Why it matters

The signing of Santos provides additional attacking depth and experience for Atlanta United as they look to build on their 2018 MLS Cup championship under head coach Tata Martino. Santos has proven to be a productive forward during his time in MLS, which should help bolster Atlanta's offense.

The details

Santos previously played for the Philadelphia Union (2019-2022), FC Cincinnati (2022-2025), and Houston Dynamo FC (2025). Over his 7-year MLS career, he has recorded 28 goals and 14 assists in 169 regular season and playoff appearances.

  • Atlanta United announced the signing on February 18, 2026.
  • Santos' contract runs through the 2026 MLS season with an option for 2027.

The players

Sergio Santos

A 31-year-old Brazilian forward with 7 years of MLS experience, joining Atlanta United on a free transfer.

Chris Henderson

Atlanta United's chief soccer officer and sporting director.

Tata Martino

The head coach of Atlanta United, who led the club to the 2018 MLS Cup championship.

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What they’re saying

“Sergio has been a productive forward in our league for the past seven seasons and will add competition to our group of attackers. He's going to bring MLS experience, quality and a winning mindset to our team, and we look forward to welcoming him to the club.”

— Chris Henderson, Atlanta United chief soccer officer and sporting director (mlssoccer.com)

What’s next

Atlanta United's 2026 MLS season kicks off on February 21 against FC Cincinnati.

The takeaway

The signing of veteran forward Sergio Santos provides Atlanta United with additional attacking depth and experience as they look to build on their 2018 MLS Cup championship under head coach Tata Martino.