A deal for Giorgos Giakoumakis to Charlotte FC edges closer

By Jorge Gonzales

Photo Courtesy of Getty Images

According to a source, Charlotte FC is exploring another loan move with an option to buy for Greek striker Giorgos Giakoumakis. The former Atlanta United star is currently out of favor at Liga MX side Cruz Azul, who are eager to offload him.

Cruz Azul’s urgency stems from their ongoing pursuit of Serbian international Luka Jović. A source close to the situation says the Mexican club is under pressure from Jović’s camp to move quickly, and Giakoumakis’ estimated $3 million annual salary has become a major financial hurdle in their roster planning.

Wage Hurdles Remain

While Charlotte FC has shown genuine interest, the striker’s current salary is considered too steep. According to the same source, Giakoumakis is open to a move to Charlotte but not desperate for it. For a deal to be completed, the player would likely need to accept a pay cut.

Giakoumakis, 30, joined Atlanta United in February 2023 from Celtic FC in the Scottish Premiership. He made an immediate impact in Major League Soccer, tallying 24 goals and 7 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions. His strong form led to a high-profile transfer to Cruz Azul last summer for a reported $10 million fee.

Now, just a year later, his time in Mexico may be coming to an end — and a return to MLS could be on the horizon with Charlotte his most likely destination.