Atlanta United Sign Veteran Goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos

Atlanta United continued to add experience and depth to its roster this offseason, announcing the signing of veteran goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos on a free transfer. Hoyos joins the club on a contract through the 2026 season, with options for 2027 and 2027–28, pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and P-1 Visa. He will occupy an international roster spot once approved.

The move brings a proven presence to Atlanta’s goalkeeping group. Hoyos arrives after spending the past three seasons with Argentine side Newell’s Old Boys, adding a wealth of South American experience and leadership to a young Atlanta back line. At 36, he has built a long, decorated career that spans Argentina’s first and second divisions, along with deep runs in continental competition.

“We’re pleased to sign Lucas and look forward to welcoming him to the club,” said Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Chris Henderson. “He’s a goalkeeper with a lot of experience in South America and a leader of the backline who is familiar with Tata’s style of play. Lucas will bring competition and leadership to our young goalkeeping group as we continue to strengthen our roster this offseason.”

Hoyos has made 341 career appearances across all competitions, recording 135 clean sheets while serving as captain at both Vélez Sarsfield and Newell’s Old Boys. He returned to Newell’s in 2023, the club where he came through the academy and made his first-division debut in 2014. Over the last three seasons, he appeared 63 times in all competitions, including seven matches during Newell’s run to the Round of 16 in the 2023 Copa Sudamericana.

A significant portion of Hoyos’ career came with Vélez Sarsfield from 2018 to 2022, where he made 137 appearances and posted 53 clean sheets. During that stretch, he helped Vélez consistently compete near the top of the league table and advance in continental play, including a semifinal run in the 2022 Copa Libertadores. His steady play and command of the back line made him a fixture in goal during one of the club’s strongest periods in recent years.

Before establishing himself in the top flight, Hoyos gained valuable experience in Argentina’s second division. He spent time on loan with Gimnasia y Esgrima from 2012–14, keeping 12 clean sheets in 21 appearances, and later played for Instituto Atlético Central Córdoba and Atlético de Rafaela before returning to Instituto and eventually earning his move to Vélez.

Now, Hoyos brings that experience to Atlanta as the club continues reshaping its roster ahead of the new season. His arrival adds leadership, competition, and a steady veteran presence to a position that has seen recent change.

Player Profile

Name: Lucas Hoyos

Position: Goalkeeper

Height: 6-0

Birthdate: April 29, 1989 (36)

Birthplace: Guaymallén, Argentina

Citizenship: Argentina

Transaction: Atlanta United signs Lucas Hoyos through the 2026 season with options for 2027 and 2027–28 on Dec. 23, 2025, pending receipt of ITC and P-1 Visa.

As Atlanta United continues to build toward the next chapter under familiar leadership, the addition of Hoyos signals a clear emphasis on experience, accountability, and competition—traits the club will lean on as preparations for the upcoming season move forward.