NYCFC acquire M Nicolas Fernandez Mercau as DP

New York City FC acquired midfielder Nicolas Fernandez Mercau from Spanish side Elche CF on Friday.

The 25-year-old Argentina native joins NYCFC as a Designated Player on a contract through 2029.

Fernandez Mercau tallied 11 goals and 12 assists in 97 appearances over three seasons at Elche.

He helped the club earn promotion to La Liga with a team-high 17 goal contributions last season.

"We're really excited to welcome Nicolas to New York City. Nicolas is an attacking midfielder who plays with intensity, possesses excellent technical ability, and contributes in both the attack and defense," NYCFC sporting director David Lee said. "Nicolas already has experience in two highly competitive leagues and has shown he can perform consistently at a high level, most recently helping Elche CF earn promotion to LaLiga.

"He is arriving at a perfect age to impact the roster in both the short- and long-term and will add quality and depth to our roster. We look forward to integrating Nicolas into the team as we continue our push through the second half of the season."

He's a New Yorker now ?? pic.twitter.com/9vm7lwegFC

— New York City FC (@newyorkcityfc) July 11, 2025

Pending receipt of his international paperwork, he will be eligible to play when the MLS transfer window opens on July 24.

Fernandez Mercau began his career with Argentina's San Lorenzo de Almagro from 2020-22.

"I'm very excited and happy to join New York City FC," he said. "Joining this Club is a big step in my career and a beautiful challenge that I welcome. I know the league is growing a lot and I am really looking forward to being a part of it and showing I'm ready for the opportunity."

--Field Level Media