Austin FC add Osman Bukari as designated player

Field Level Media|published: 05/30/2024, 4:12pm EDT

May 18, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Soccer fans cheer during the match between Austin FC and Sporting Kansas City during the first half at Q2 Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dustin Safranek-USA TODAY Sports

Austin FC announced the signing of winger Osman Bukari from Serbia's Red Star Belgrade on Thursday, with a report putting the acquisition at $7 million.

The 25-year-old Ghana international's contract runs through the 2027 MLS season and includes a 2028 option.

Bukari tallied 25 goals and 20 assists in 78 matches while leading Red Star Belgrade to back-to-back Serbian league titles and back-to-back Serbian Cups.

"I am very motivated and excited to join Austin FC," Bukari said. "I want to do everything I can to help this team, this city, and this fanbase to achieve their goals."

Bukari will occupy designated player and international roster spots with Austin upon receipt of his paperwork. He can be selected once the MLS secondary transfer window opens on July 18.

"Osman is a fast and technical winger with a proven ability to get goals and assists competing at some of the highest levels of club football," said Austin sporting director Rodolfo Borrell. "We're confident he will make an immediate impact for us on the pitch when he arrives and we're delighted to have him sign for Austin FC."

Internationally, Bukari has three goals and two assists in 17 caps with Ghana. He participated in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

--Field Level Media