FRISCO, Texas — FC Dallas is adding to its offensive arsenal with its latest signing.
According to soccer insider Fabrizio Romano, FC Dallas and Portuguese side Benfica have agreed to a deal for Croatian striker Petar Musa. Romano reported the two clubs agreed to a deal worth 10 million euros, with 3 million euros in add-ons. The Athletic's soccer insider Tom Bogert also reported last week the deal was nearing a finalized agreement.
The deal would be a permanent move for Musa and is the club's most expensive signing in its history. Alan Velasco was previously the club's most expensive signing for a reported $7 million.
FC Dallas confirmed the signing on Thursday via their social media. The deal, according to the club, is a four-year contract through 2027 with a club option for 2028. Musa will occupy an international slot on the roster, pending receipt of his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC), as well as a Designated Player spot.
Musa, 25, comes to North Texas after spending two seasons with Benfica, the defending champions of Portugal's top league, Primeira Liga. Musa scored 12 goals in 44 appearances for Benfica.
“Petar is a player of a very high level. I want to thank the owners for being able to bring Petar on board, for the effort that the owners have made in signing him,” said FC Dallas head coach Nico Estévez. “We are looking forward to working with him to help him provide FC Dallas fans with many goals.”
The 25-year-old striker also made his international debut for Croatia's senior team in March 2023. He's made six total appearances for his country.
Musa bolsters an FC Dallas attack in need for more goal-scoring production. FC Dallas scored 41 goals in 2023, which ranked 20th out of 29 teams in MLS. Jesus Ferreira, who recently was set to be sold out to a Russian club before MLS reportedly stepped in and blocked the deal, scored nearly one-third of those 41 goals (12).
“We’re excited to bring Petar to FC Dallas. His offensive production in the Primeira League illustrates his scoring ability and we're confident he will boost our attack,” said FC Dallas President Dan Hunt. “This landmark signing reflects our commitment to competing at the highest level and he’s going to be a great complement to our talented roster.”
A 6-foot, 3-inch striker of his quality is just the type of signing FC Dallas needs headed into 2024 to try and improve its attack, especially if the club keeps Ferreira on the squad and doesn't sell him to a club overseas.
FC Dallas opens its season Feb. 24 against the San Jose Earthquakes.
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