REPORT: NYCFC to buy Thiago Andrade from Bahia

With primary striker Héber out until at least May while still dealing with an ACL injury he sustained last season, New York City FC is a bit light for depth in the attacking corps. And thus far, most of City’s reinforcements for the 2021 season have been on the defensive side of the ball, with additions like left back Chris Gloster, defensive midfielder Alfredo Morales, and another left back Malte Amundsen being the only incoming players this preseason.

But that could change in the near future. According to a report from Goal.com, NYCFC have come to terms with Brazilian club Bahia to bring over winger Thiago Andrade for a purported fee of $1.8 million.

To date, Thiago has had limited reps at the senior level. Since his first-team debut last year, he has appeared 12 times for Bahia, scoring once and also picking up an assist. Since then, however, it seems he’s been playing primarily for the Tricolor’s reserve team.

The signing would a U-22 initiative for New York City, according to MLS writer Tom Bogert. Bogert has also said his sources say it’s a done deal. The initial Goal report states that Thiago will be on a 5-year deal with NYCFC.

At only 20 years old, Thiago possesses pace, technical ability, and a high work rate. He primarily plays as an inverted winger on the left side, and is also able to play at the right wing and even striker according to some scouting reports.

Where he fits into NYCFC’s system will probably depend upon how many minutes manager Ronny Deila will want to play youngster Andres Jasson, who has had a very good preseason thus far. But the good news is that help is seemingly on the way.

Let’s hope for this announcement sooner rather than later.