Joaquín Valiente, the Uruguayan midfielder, has officially joined FC Dallas in Major League Soccer after not returning to his former club, Barcelona SC. Reports suggest that Barcelona had sought to extend his loan from Defensor Sporting of Uruguay, which owns his rights, but the Uruguayan club preferred to transfer him permanently. Despite making the preseason with Barcelona, Valiente's transfer was finalized on February 13 when FC Dallas announced the signing.

The financial details of the transfer have been disclosed, with FC Dallas reportedly paying $1.2 million to secure the midfielder's services. Valiente has signed a contract that will bind him to the club until 2028, with an option for an extension, indicating the club's investment in his long-term potential. This move marks a significant step in Valiente's career as he shifts from the Ecuadorian league to the competitive landscape of American soccer.

This transfer also highlights a growing trend in MLS for clubs to invest in talent from South America, particularly as they seek to bolster their rosters with proven players. Valiente's journey from Barcelona SC to FC Dallas may set a precedent for other clubs in the region looking to expand their talent acquisition strategies in the increasingly popular MLS.