Austin FC signs Uruguayan forward Torres from Palmeiras as designated player

January 24, 2026

Austin FC has completed the signing of Torres, a Uruguayan forward who arrives from Palmeiras in Brazil, and the club has registered him as a designated player. The move brings a player with recent top-level South American club experience to the MLS side in Central Texas.

During his single season with Palmeiras, Torres scored 10 goals and added six assists, contributing across competitions for the Brazilian club. Those numbers reflect his direct involvement in the attack and give Austin FC a player with demonstrable offensive output.

Torres also brings international experience, having made 22 appearances for the Uruguay national team. His international caps offer a track record of playing at higher competitive levels, which can be valuable in league play and continental tournaments.

Designated player status allows MLS teams to sign and pay higher-profile players while only a portion of their salary counts against the league salary budget. By using one of those slots on Torres, Austin FC signaled an investment in his immediate role on the roster and in their attacking plans.

The addition expands Austin FC's forward options and adds a player who combined scoring and assisting in his most recent season. Coaching staff will integrate him into the squad structure as the team prepares for upcoming competitions, with expectations that he will contribute to the offensive lineup.

Torres joins other recent acquisitions as Austin FC continues to shape its roster for competitive play in MLS. The club has secured the transfer from Palmeiras and completed the registration process that lists him as a designated player for the Central Texas club.