After a few months, the Dallas FC academy product, Bryan Reynolds, officially has a new home.
Dallas moved Reynolds to AS Roma under a club recording deal as he is just the latest on the conveyor belt of the talent the club has spawned. Weston McKennie (now Juventus), Reggie Cannon (Boavista) and Chris Richards (Hoffenheim, on loan from Bayern Munich) are just a few products of the club’s academy.
Reynolds’ deal is just another testament to the talent the club is contributing to development.
“We actually had a bidding war between several Champions League teams, which is a new dynamic,” CEO and Chairman Clark Hunt told the media at a virtual press conference. “I think that says a lot about where our academy is, but it also speaks to the quality of the American player. With the help of Major League Soccer, we’re starting to develop great players through our academies.”
Roma won the race while Juventus, Club Brugge, AC Milan and many others were interested in signing.
“I’d like to compliment Bryan Reynolds and his work ethic,” said Hunt. “He worked so hard for this opportunity and we couldn’t be happier for him. His move to AS Roma and the aspirations they have for him speak volumes for the work Dallas FC has done with our academy.”
In addition to developing the next generation of talent, Dallas continues to focus on further success at MLS. They have escaped reaching the MLS Cup in recent years, despite winning the Supporters’ Shield and the US Open Cup in 2016.
“We’re going to take this income and put it back into the organization. We always do that with transfer income,” said Hunt. “It’s really important that we find a way to strengthen the squad when we start the 2021 season.” We’ve been solid defensively and made a little revenue there, but you can look for the club that is focused on the offensive side of the ball. I think most of these resources will focus on the attack. “
It’s been a busy winter for Dallas.
The club signed Spanish center-back Jose Antonio Martinez from SD Eibar and wingers Jader Obrian (Rionegra Aguilas) and Freddy Vargas (Deportivo Lara). Reynolds’ transfer could open up the possibility of further additions to Luchi Gonzalez’s squad.
“I really like what Luchi did,” said Hunt. “He implemented his style of play and brought in players who can help us with the championship.” I feel very good with the roster he put together for the 21st campaign and I think we have a legitimate chance to get back to the MLS Cup. “
