Portland Timbers Transfer Santiago Moreno to Fluminense for $6 Million

The Portland Timbers have transferred Colombian winger Santiago Moreno to Brazilian Serie A club Fluminense for a fee reported to be around $6 million, making it the second highest transfer fee received by the MLS club. The transfer followed a contentious period in which Moreno was absent without excuse from the Timbers' Leagues Cup match against Club América, an action reportedly aimed at forcing the move after initial bids from Fluminense were rejected for not meeting Portland's valuation. Moreno, who joined the Timbers in 2021 from América de Cali, leaves after contributing 22 goals and 31 assists in 146 appearances across all competitions. Portland's general manager Ned Grabavoy expressed appreciation for Moreno's contributions and wished him well in his new opportunity. The funds from Moreno's transfer are expected to be reinvested, with the Timbers close to signing Norwegian left-winger Kristoffer Velde and linked with other midfield reinforcements. Fluminense recently made the semifinals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and have also signed Luciano Acosta from FC Dallas, signaling their intent to strengthen their squad.