MLS and Mexico Sensation Eyes Blockbuster European Switch as Transfer Deadline Looms
Obed Vargas has previously expressed his admiration for Atlético Madrid as his childhood favorite team, and now the Seattle Sounders and Mexico rising star reportedly finds himself in negotiations with the Spanish La Liga powerhouse as the transfer deadline approaches its final moments.
The 20-year-old midfielder, born in Alaska and choosing to play for Mexico internationally, has been an exceptional performer with the Sounders in Major League Soccer since joining as a homegrown talent in 2021.
Throughout his tenure with the Sounders, he has appeared in more than 92 regular-season matches, scoring six goals and providing 12 assists. In 2025, he also contributed to the team's victory in the 2025 Leagues Cup, defeating Lionel Messi's Inter Miami in the championship match.
With his extensive top-flight experience and earning recognition as the leading player in the annual MLS 22 Under-22 rankings, Vargas has caught the attention of numerous elite clubs worldwide, having turned down a Liga MX opportunity in December to pursue a European transfer.
Personal contract terms should pose minimal challenges for the Atlético supporter, and the Sounders are currently negotiating with the Madrid-based club about possible deal conditions for a player who has under 12 months remaining on his current agreement, as reported by The Athletic.
"My main goal is moving to Europe," Vargas shared with ESPN earlier this month. "If a transfer doesn't materialize before then, the plan would be at the season's end."
If Vargas remains in Seattle, he would pursue additional MLS achievements during the regular campaign and postseason, while also competing in the Concacaf Champions Cup and Leagues Cup, keeping his focus on securing an El Tri selection for the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada.
Vargas's Atlético Dreams
Vargas's Atlético Dreams
Despite originating from Anchorage, Alaska's capital city, and developing during a time zone that wasn't particularly conducive to following European football, Vargas has maintained a long-standing allegiance to Atlético Madrid—and had previously discussed his affection for the club well before this potential transfer opportunity emerged.
During the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, he completed the full 90 minutes in the Sounders' 3–1 defeat to Atlético at Lumen Field, subsequently exchanging jerseys with his hero and veteran Atlético player, Antoine Griezmann, who has been speculated to be considering an MLS transfer in the coming period.
"Atlético de Madrid, they're always the underdogs. And during my time in Alaska, I began following them, particularly during the 2014 Champions League final," Vargas explained to the Sounders' website. "And I believe it connects with my personal journey. ... I see myself in that, coming from Alaska, having to persevere through relocating, and an Academy system, reserve team, a national squad. ... I think that mindset has guided me throughout my entire career."
Should Vargas secure an agreement with his childhood club, it must happen swiftly, as the Spanish transfer window closes on Monday evening.