After either a bit of gamesmanship from Independiente and/or patience from Atlanta United, Alan Franco confirmed on Monday that he is joining the MLS club.

Franco, a 24-year-old centerback, told TyCSports (Translated): “It was a bit of a surprise, but I’m happy with the step I’m going to take. It’s been a long time coming.”

He added that he had been in contact with Ezequiel Barco — a former teammate at Independiente in Argentina — regarding joining the team.

Atlanta United was reportedly on the verge of signing Franco last week for $2.8 million, only for reports later in the week having Independiente instead selling him to Sao Paolo in Brazil for $4 million.

If it was a bluff by Independiente to raise Atlanta United’s bid, it didn’t work.

Atlanta United declined to comment.

After Franco completes the quarantine process, he is expected to compete for a starting spot in manager Gabriel Heinze’s defense. Franco is a quality player. He made 121 appearances for Independiente and has one appearance for Argentina’s national team. Right-footed, he is good in the air, a solid tackler and distributor of the ball.

Miles Robinson and Homegrown signing George Campbell were paired together during Saturday’s training exercise against Charleston at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Anton Walkes and Alex de John were the centerback pairing in the second half of the exercise.

Atlanta United will open its season on April 6 at Costa Rica’s Alajuelense in the Champions League.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta United forward Miguel Almirón #10 kicks the ball during the match against Columbus Crew at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA on Saturday September 13, 2025. (Photo by Taylor McLaughlin/Atlanta United)

Credit: Taylor McLaughlin/Atlanta United

Featured

A rendering of the columbarium memorial that is estimated to be completed by next summer or fall in the southeast part of Oakland Cemetery, officials said. (Courtesy of Historic Oakland Foundation)

Credit: Historic Oakland Foundation