Atlanta United has had no discussions with Argentinian defender Martin Demichelis, according to a person with knowledge of MLS transactions.
There have been several reports in the past few days that Atlanta United, about to embark on its first season in the league, has signed with former River Plate, Bayern Munich and Manchester City defender.
The person with knowledge said there have been no discussions between the two sides and expressed surprise that there would be.
Neither club president Darren Eales nor Atlanta United spokesman would comment on the reports, citing the team’s policy of not discussing players that are under contract with other teams. Demichelis plays for Espanyol in Spain’s first division.
It would be surprising for Atlanta United to even consider signing Demichelis because of Eales’ preference to sign young players that can be potentially be sold. Demichelis, 36 years old, would be considered “dead money,” a player whose value couldn’t be recouped.
The initial reports may have been related to Demichelis playing for Atlanta United manager Gerardo Martino when he was formerly the manger of Argentina’s national team.
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