COLUMBUS – The Columbus Crew are finalizing a major addition to their attack and are close to reaching a deal to sign Uruguayan forward Santiago Rodriguez from Brazilian club Botafogo. The agreement is set to keep Rodriguez in Columbus through the 2029/30 MLS season, with a Club option for the 2030/31 season. Tom Bogert of The Athletic first reported the move, giving the Crew another significant attacking piece as they look to reshape their roster.
Rodriguez, 26, is no stranger to Major League Soccer.
Before joining Botafogo in 2025, the Uruguayan spent four seasons with New York City FC, establishing himself as one of the league’s more creative attacking midfielders. During his time in MLS, Rodriguez recorded 34 goals and 28 assists in 144 appearances for the Club throughout all competitons, showcasing his ability to create chances, carry the ball forward and contribute in the final third.
His ensuing arrival comes at a pivotal time for Columbus. The Crew recently moved on from Daniel Gazdag, buying out the Designated Player’s contract and opening a DP slot for another attacking addition. Gazdag’s departure came after he struggled to replicate the production he had previously shown during his time with the Philadelphia Union, and the Crew quickly began looking for a replacement capable of providing more consistent creativity and attacking production.
Rodriguez will step into a Columbus attack that has needed reinforcements. The situation became even more pressing following an injury to Wessam Abou Ali, who had been expected to provide a significant presence in the attacking third. Wth Abou Ali unavailable, the Crew brought in veteran striker Josef Martinez to help fill the void. Martinez brings an impressive resume and years of MLS experience, but he is still finding his footing with the club and adjusting to his new surroundings.
That makes Rodriguez an especially important addition.
While he can play as an attacking midfielder or on the left side, his creativity could give Columbus another avenue to create chances and take pressure off the club’s other attacking players. His familiarity with MLS should also help ease the transition, particularly compared with a player arriving in the league for the first time.
Rodriguez’s return to MLS represents a significant opportunity for both the player and the club. After an uneven spell with Botafogo, where he recorded just 11 goal contributions (5G, 6A) in 58 appearances, he now returns to a league where he previously established himself as a productive attacking talent.
For the Crew, the move signals an aggressive attempt to stabilize an attack that has changed significantly. With Gazdag gone, Abou Ali injured, and Martinez still settling in, Rodriguez could quickly become one of Columbus’ most important attacking players, especially when paired with Brais Mendez.
MASSIVE REPORT 