Atlanta United have officially announced the signing of Tomás Jacob to a U-22 initiative deal through 2029 with options for the 2029-30 and 2030-31 seasons. Tom Bogert of The Athletic reported the transfer fee is around $5 million. Since Jacob is a U-22 initiative signing, his cap hit will only be $200k. He will occupy a senior roster spot and take up an international spot.
As Rob Usry pointed out in an earlier write-up, the 21-year-old arrives from Liga MX’s Necaxa after a short stint. He made 17 appearances after arriving this summer. Prior to Necaxa, he made 50 appearances for Argentina’s Newell’s Old Boys, Tata Martino’s former club.
Jacob appears to be very versatile, with the ability to play in midfield and along multiple spots on the back line. The indication early on seems to be that he’ll operate as a right back for Atlanta United. However, don’t be too surprised if he steps in as a right-sided center back in a back three at some point during his time in Atlanta.
Atlanta now has just one U-22 slot available. Jacob is the second consecutive signing with ties to Newell’s, where Martino played, coached and is considered a club legend.