Atlanta United sign Chile D Paulo Diaz

Paulo Diaz, a defender for the Chile international team and formerly River Plate, signed with Atlanta United on Tuesday.

Financial terms of the contract were not disclosed, but his contract lasts through the 2027-28 MLS season with options for each of the following two seasons.

It's a free transfer for Atlanta after Diaz's contract expired with River Plate, a top club in Argentina that competed at last year's FIFA Club World Cup.

Diaz has collected 27 goals and 11 assists in 364 club matches across all competitions. He previously played for the Saudi Pro League's Al-Ahli (2018-19) and Argentina's San Lorenzo (2016-18).

For Chile, he has earned 56 caps and scored one goal.

"Paulo is a player who will bring toughness, competition and a winning mentality to our group," Atlanta chief soccer officer and sporting director Chris Henderson said in a statement.

"He's a center back who has a good feel for the game and understands the moments to be aggressive or hold the line defensively. He brings great experience at the club and international level and fits the style that we want to play at Atlanta United. We're excited to welcome him to Atlanta."

Atlanta United (3-9-2, 11 points) previously signed Paraguayan defender Junior Alonso during this transfer window.

--Field Level Media