An MLS heavyweight pulls off the coup of the window by officially signing a cornerstone Barcelona linchpin.
The 20-year-old US youth international, who spent over six years developing at La Masia, joins on a permanent transfer through June 2027 with options until 2029-30, pending his International Transfer Certificate.
This move reunites him with Martino, Barcelona’s former manager, in a deal that underscores Atlanta’s ambition to blend American talent with global pedigree.
That player is Adrián Gill, the Denver-born central midfielder who progressed from UE Cornellà to Barcelona’s famed academy in 2018, as per the official Barcelona statement.
A UEFA Youth League winner in 2025, Gill’s development stalled through injuries—including a serious knee issue—but he regained form on loan back at Cornellà in Spain’s fifth tier.
Atlanta paid a modest symbolic fee for the Supplemental Roster spot occupant, capitalizing on his US U-17 caps (10 appearances) and dual US-Polish citizenship.
Gill’s technical assurance, defensive work rate, and leadership shone in youth ranks, earning praise as a “dependable, astute talent.”
Injuries denied first-team breakthroughs amid competition from Fermín López and Lamine Yamal, prompting Barcelona’s pragmatic sale post-2026 contract extension.
Atlanta chief Chris Henderson hailed his “top academy” pedigree, slotting him into midfield competition as the club overhauls after a dismal Eastern Conference finish.
This transfer reflects La Masia’s dual reality: nurturing stars like Pau Cubarsí while parting with stalled prospects.
For Gill, MLS offers guaranteed minutes over Barça Atlétic bench time, plus a World Cup 2026 pathway on home soil.
Martino’s Barcelona connections eased negotiations, positioning Atlanta to develop another La Masia export—echoing Thiago Alcalá’s success.
Barcelona streamline their squad amid Dro Fernández’s PSG exit and youth influx (Abdelkarim, Pacifico).
Gill departs with 2025 Youth League glory; Atlanta gains a homegrown gem ready for senior impact.
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