Villarreal Complete Six-Year Deal For USMNT Right Back Alex Freeman

Villarreal have officially announced the signing of United States international Alex Freeman from Major League Soccer side Orlando City, completing a long-term deal that runs until 2032.

The 21-year-old right back joins the Yellow Submarine after a breakout MLS campaign, as Villarreal continue to strengthen their squad while pushing for Champions League football. The LaLiga outfit currently sit fourth in the Spanish top flight, and Freeman is viewed as a player ready to compete immediately.

MLS Export Confirmed As Villarreal Invest In Youth

Villarreal secured Freeman’s signature in a deal worth approximately $4 million upfront, with performance-based add-ons that could take the total package beyond $7 million. The agreement also includes a sell-on clause, ensuring Orlando City benefit from any future transfer.

The move was finalized in January 2026, following sustained interest from Villarreal. The Spanish club had attempted to sign Freeman during the previous summer window, but Orlando City were unwilling to negotiate at the time.

This time, the opportunity aligned — and Villarreal moved decisively.

Why Villarreal Wanted Alex Freeman

In their official announcement, Villarreal highlighted Freeman’s physical attributes and attacking instincts as key reasons behind the move.

“He stands out for his physical power and attacking projection. A strong and fast player, he boasts impressive athletic qualities that also allow him to operate in more advanced positions, always starting from the right flank,” the club stated.

Freeman’s profile fits Villarreal’s model perfectly: athletic, versatile, tactically flexible, and young enough to develop further while contributing immediately.

Freeman’s Rapid Rise In MLS

Freeman enjoyed a standout 2025 MLS season, during which he:

• Became a consistent starter for Orlando City

• Won MLS Young Player of the Year

• Earned MLS All-Star honors

• Established himself as one of the league’s top full backs

His performances also earned him recognition at international level, further accelerating his path to European football.

Villarreal’s Proven U.S. Market Strategy

Freeman’s arrival continues Villarreal’s long-standing commitment to tapping into the American market. The club has a history of identifying and developing U.S.-based talent, dating back to the landmark signing of Jozy Altidore in 2008, then a record MLS transfer fee.

More recently, Villarreal added Tani Oluwaseyi from Minnesota United, reinforcing their belief in MLS as a reliable talent pool.

With Freeman now in Spain, Villarreal add another high-upside asset to a squad already competing at the top end of LaLiga.

What This Means For Freeman And Villarreal

For Freeman, the move represents a major step into elite European football, offering weekly exposure to LaLiga’s tactical and technical demands.

For Villarreal, it is another smart, forward-thinking acquisition — one that blends athleticism, resale value, and immediate squad depth.

If his MLS form translates to Spain, Villarreal may have secured yet another bargain with long-term upside.

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