Potential Germán Berterame Transfer to Portland Timbers Could Make MLS History

On Saturday, reports revealed that the Portland Timbers are offering $15 million for CF Monterrey striker Germán Berterame. The MLS side paying that sum would trigger the Argentine’s release clause, leaving the two parties to determine what happens next. 

If the Timbers pull off this significant transfer, it will make MLS history. The Athletic’s Tom Bogert highlighted on X, formerly Twitter, that the transfer fee Portland intend to pay will be the third-highest transfer ever, should Berterame agree to join. 

The fee for Berterame will be on par with the sum Atlanta United disbursed for Ezequiel Barco. Only two transfers in MLS history have surpassed this amount, which Atlanta United also facilitated: $15.5 million for Pity Martinez and $16 million for Thiago Almada.

Despite the substantial financial offer from Portland, Monterrey has communicated to the Argentine player their desire for him to stay with the club. 

Both teams are currently awaiting the player’s decision, recognizing that Berterame’s potential move to the Timbers would be more financially advantageous, taking into account factors such as salary. 

The departure of the 25-year-old would pose a notable setback for the team, especially given their involvement in two ongoing competitions.