Columbus Crew advance talks for former NYCFC attacker

The 26-year-old has made four starts under his coach.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 211 min read

🟡 Sources: Columbus Crew in advanced talks to sign attacker Santi Rodriguez from Botafogo. @CLMerlo 1st. Rodriguez, 26, Via @tombogert on X

What happened: Tom Bogert, crediting César Luis Merlo, said no agreement is complete. The move would return the former New York City FC player to MLS after a big-money exit.

Why it matters: Columbus sit 11th in the Eastern Conference, putting added weight on reinforcements. The transfer window closes Sept. 11.

By the numbers: The attacker was selected for 13 of 19 matches under his current coach but started only four.

What to watch: Watch whether the clubs settle terms before the transfer window closes.

Sources

@tombogert 2026-08-21T14:18:00.926527+00:00

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Columbus Crew advance talks for former NYCFC attacker

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