The former Portugal youth international bolsters an already stacked attack as RSL makes a statement move.
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RSL announce Goncalves as latest signingJoins from FC Copenhagen on deal through 2026Western Conference side bolsters attackGet the MLS Season Pass today!Stream games nowWHAT HAPPENED?
Real Salt Lake announced that they have signed Diogo Gonçalves to a two-year contract through 2026, with club options for 2027 and 2028. The 27-year-old joins on a Designated Player contract from Danish Superliga side FC Copenhagen, where he has been playing since Jan. 2023.
During his time with the Danish club, Goncalves made 13 UEFA Champions League appearances. The Lions' European run that season was the best-ever performance by a Superliga side. Goncalves' impact during that run gives RSL critical experience, which they believe will help elevate their squad.
“Diogo is a player that has been successful both at home in Portugal and abroad, gaining experience at Copenhagen and facing all types of situations there the last 18 months. His Champions League tests demonstrate the high standard he holds," RSL Chief Soccer Officer Kurt Schmid said. "We expect him to expand and impact our attack, and with the integration of the other summer additions, and are excited to see the group mesh here during the final stretch into the MLS Cup Playoffs."
Overall, Goncalves scored 21 goals in 57 appearances for FC Copenhagen.
AdvertisementUSA Today ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Goncalves and RSL star Chicho Arango crossed paths briefly as teammates at Benfica in the summer of 2017. Still, they managed to develop a relationship through social media.Reunited in Salt Lake City, Goncalves should add to a potent attack that features Arango at the forefront. The Colombian is the current Golden Boot leader in MLS with 17 goals.
Goncalves, who will operate at the 10 in an attacking midfield role, looks like the final puzzle piece to a scintillating attack. He'll be accompanied by U.S. Youth international Diego Luna on the wing and Colombian international Andres Gomez opposite.
RSL sit third in the Western Conference, five points behind conference leaders LA Galaxy, however, they have a game in hand.
WHAT GONCALVES SAID
“I am very happy to arrive at Real Salt Lake and take this step forward in my career,” said Gonçalves, “Major League Soccer’s growth is a great thing – this League has everything to take the next steps – and my objective is to work hard, help the Club, and obviously provide goals and assists to lift RSL to the highest level.”
USA Today ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR RSL & GONCALVES?
Goncalves is expected to be available to make his RSL debut after the completion of the Leagues Cup, when MLS resumes its regular season.
The Western Conference side will return to MLS action on Saturday, Aug. 24 when they host the San Jose Earthquakes at America First Field.