Orlando City is set to announce Alex Freeman’s transfer to a high-performing LaLiga team vying for the 2025/26 title, marking a major move for one of the USMNT’s top young players.
Young USMNT Talent Leaves MLS to Sign with Villarreal
The Athletic reports that the young USMNT right-back has agreed terms with Villarreal. The club will officially announce the transfer in the coming hours. The clubs closed the deal for an initial amount exceeding $4 million.
The total value can exceed $7 million if Freeman meets performance targets and add-ons. Orlando City also secured a sell-on clause, ensuring profits if Freeman increases his value in Europe.
Freeman’s contract with Orlando City would have expired at the end of 2026. However, by selling him in this January transfer window, the MLS team avoids the risk of losing its young prospect on a free transfer in the future and secures a significant financial return for the player who rose through its youth ranks.
The 21-year-old young player joins Villarreal, a team currently enjoying an excellent run of form in fourth place in the Spanish league, just behind Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atlético Madrid. This move to Spain is widely regarded as the perfect opportunity for Freeman to elevate his game and prepare to represent the USMNT at the 2026 World Cup in June.
Freeman Is One of the Most Tactically Complete Young Players In Soccer
At 21, Freeman is a modern right-back with an offensive profile. He advances as a right winger when systems demand width, standing out as a playmaker who creates chances from the back.
In 2025, Freeman scored 6 goals and recorded 3 assists in 29 MLS matches, a rare feat for a defender and proof of his impact in attack. He also ranked highly among defenders in key passes, demonstrating his ability to create chances.
Freeman also maintains good passing accuracy and reads the game well, helping the team move the ball down the right flank and connect with forwards and midfielders. This quality makes him effective in both quick transitions and more patient build-up play.
Despite his offensive qualities, Freeman also excels defensively. He often wins defensive and aerial duels, recovers high balls, and contributes to the defensive line with tactical discipline.
His height of 1.88 m and good speed allow him to use his physicality to cover opposing attacks in physical challenges, without falling into indiscipline with excessive fouls. Now, the USMNT is betting on Freeman’s further development in Europe to bring him to a higher level for the World Cup in June.
