Report: Atlanta United nearing $18M transfer for Breel Embolo

Field Level Media|published: Fri 14th August, 14:02 2026

Jul 2, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Switzerland forward Breel Embolo (7) enters the pitch prior to the first half against Algeria during a Round of 32 match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup at BC Place Vancouver. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-Imagn Images

Atlanta United are finalizing a massive deal to acquire forward Breel Embolo from French side Rennes, The Athletic reported Friday.

The reported $18 million transfer fee would make the 29-year-old Swiss international one of the top five most expensive players in MLS history.

Embolo tallied 10 goals and three assists in 34 appearances last season for Rennes, his first season with the Ligue 1 club. He previously played for AS Monaco (2022-25), Germany's Borussia Monchengladbach (2019-22) and Schalke 04 (2016-19) and Switzerland's Basel (2014-16).

Embolo competed with Switzerland at this summer's FIFA World Cup, where he picked up a controversial red card in a 3-1 loss to Argentina in the quarterfinals. He has 26 goals in 92 career caps for Switzerland.

Atlanta United (3-12-3, 12 points) are in last place in the 15-team Eastern Conference heading into Saturday night's home match against the New York Red Bulls.

--Field Level Media

Latest