As the Loons prepare for a future without Robin Lod, the front office appears to have moved quickly to secure a high-profile replacement in the attack. According to a report from Andy Greder of the Pioneer Press, Minnesota United is finalizing a deal to acquire Argentine winger Tomás Chancalay from the New England Revolution.
The move represents a significant investment in the post-Lod era, bringing a proven MLS goal-scorer to Saint Paul as Eric Ramsay continues to reshape the roster.
Report confirmed by club
Update: Minnesota United FC has confirmed the signing in a news release and Instagram post.
“We’re happy to welcome Tomás Chancalay to Minnesota United,” said MNUFC Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Khaled El-Ahmad. “He’s a versatile attacking player with MLS experience who has the ability to impact games in a variety of ways. We believe he will complement our playing style and strengthen our attack.”
“I am really excited and happy to play with Minnesota United and in front of the fans at Allianz Field soon,” said winger Tomás Chancalay. “I am ready to work and give fans exciting moments to experience together.”
Details of the move
- Player: Tomás Chancalay
- Former club: New England Revolution
- Terms: $100,000 in a cash-for-player trade
- Sell-on clause: New England retains a percentage if the player is transferred out of MLS
- Contract length: Signed through the 2027-28 season with a club option for 2028-29
Who is Tomás Chancalay?
Tomás Chancalay joined the New England Revolution in 2023, initially on loan from Racing Club before the move was made permanent. He quickly established himself as one of the most dangerous attackers in the Eastern Conference, known for his ability to cut inside from the wing and unleash powerful long-range shots. Before his move to MLS, Chancalay featured for Colon and Racing in Argentina, as well as a stint in the United Arab Emirates with Al-Wasl.
His 2024 season was unfortunately cut short by a torn ACL suffered in May, which sidelined him for the remainder of the year. Prior to the injury, he was playing at a Designated Player level for the Revolution. Minnesota appears to be betting on a full recovery for the 25-year-old, viewing him as a cornerstone piece for the 2026 campaign.
Filling the void in the attack
The timing of this report is particularly noteworthy given the news of Robin Lod’s departure to Chicago. While Lod was known for his tactical versatility and defensive work rate, Chancalay offers a more direct, goal-oriented threat from wide positions.
If Chancalay returns to his pre-injury form, he provides the Loons with a dynamic scoring option that can play on either wing. His arrival suggests that Eric Ramsay wants to transition toward a more aggressive, vertical attacking style. For a Minnesota side that has occasionally struggled to find goals from non-striker positions, Chancalay’s history of high shot volume and clinical finishing in the final third could be the exact spark the offense needs.
Tomás Chancalay by the numbers
- Goals in 2023: 6 goals in just 11 appearances after arriving mid-season.
- Versatility: Capable of playing as a left winger, right winger, or a secondary striker.
- Age: 25 years old, fitting the club’s desire to trend younger with core signings.
- Status: Previously occupied a Designated Player spot in New England.
This post has been updated with information from a MNUFC news release.
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