Seattle Sounders Transfer Obed Vargas to Atlético Madrid
Seattle Sounders FC have transferred homegrown midfielder Obed Vargas to Spanish La Liga side Atlético Madrid for an undisclosed fee, the club announced Sunday. The 20-year-old Mexico international becomes the first Sounders Academy product to move to a major European league since DeAndre Yedlin joined Tottenham Hotspur in 2014.
Vargas departs Seattle after making 130 appearances across all competitions, recording eight goals and 16 assists since his professional debut. The Academy graduate played a pivotal role in the club’s recent successes, including the 2022 Concacaf Champions Cup and the 2025 Leagues Cup title. His consistent performances earned him the top spot on MLS’ 22 Under 22 list, cementing his status as one of the league’s brightest young talents.
\”This is a tremendous opportunity for Obed and a proud moment for Sounders FC,\” said Craig Waibel, General Manager and Chief Soccer Officer. \”This move reflects his hard work and ambition, as well as the club’s coaching and development staff from the Academy up to the First Team.\”
The transfer comes just months after Vargas faced his new club during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where he represented the Sounders on the global stage. Seattle retained a sell-on percentage as part of the deal, ensuring financial benefit from any future transfer.
In a farewell message to supporters, Vargas reflected on his time with the club. \”To all the fans – it was an incredible ride. From my debut in Austin to my debut at Lumen, to winning Champions League and playing in front of 70,000 people and winning Leagues Cup. I couldn’t have imagined it any other way and wouldn’t have wanted it with any other team.\”
Vargas is expected to join Atlético Madrid immediately as they compete in both La Liga and European competitions this season.
