Atlanta United has signed defender Elías Báez from San Lorenzo on a contract through 2028, with option years for 2029 and 2030. The club stated that Báez will fill U-22 Initiative and international roster spots, pending his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and P-1 Visa.
“Elías has emerged as one of the best young defenders in Argentina over the past couple of seasons and we’re pleased that he has chosen Atlanta United as the next step in his career,” said Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Chris Henderson. “He’s going to bring energy and toughness and fits well with our style of play. We look forward to welcoming him to the club and integrating him into our group.”
Báez, who is 21 years old, made 60 first team appearances for San Lorenzo in all competitions, scoring once and providing two assists. He began his career with San Lorenzo’s second team in February 2022 before moving up to make his first team debut against Defensa y Justicia on April 6, 2024. In the 2024 season, he appeared in 28 matches across competitions, starting most of his league games and playing in Copa Libertadores fixtures.
During the following year, Báez started every match of both the Apertura and Clausura seasons. He helped San Lorenzo reach the semifinals during Apertura and scored his first professional goal during Clausura. His performance contributed to San Lorenzo qualifying for consecutive playoff appearances.
Atlanta United FC is a professional soccer club based in Atlanta, Georgia. Since its founding as an expansion franchise in Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference in 2017, Atlanta United has achieved several titles including the MLS Cup in 2018 as well as victories in the U.S. Open Cup and Campeones Cup in 2019. More information about their history can be found on their official website.
The current Atlanta United roster includes two goalkeepers: Jayden Hibbert and Lucas Hoyos; ten defenders including Pedro Amador, Juan Berrocal (on loan from Getafe), Dominik Chong Qui, Matthew Edwards, Stian Gregersen, Ronald Hernández, Tomás Jacob, Enea Mihaj, Kaiden Moore (on loan with Philadelphia Union), along with new signing Elías Báez; eleven midfielders; and four forwards.
Báez was born on October 18, 2004, in Rafael Castillo, Argentina.
The transaction remains subject to final approval upon receipt of required transfer documents.
