Breakfast Links - December 29, 2021

Welcome to another edition of the Breakfast Links. We’re coming to the end of 2021 and I know I’m ready for a new start. Bring on 2022 already!

Houston

Houston, we have a head coach (reportedly)! Nothing has been made official yet but all signs are pointing to Paulo Nagamura as the new Dynamo head coach. You may not be jumping up from your desk, or couch, about this news but, let’s give it time.

Maxi Urruti’s dream of playing for all 3 Major League Soccer teams in Texas is coming true. (I don’t know if he actually had that dream.) Urruti signed with Austin FC after just one season in Houston.

Make sure to check out the Dynamo Theory podcast if you haven’t already. Our latest episode is now out everywhere you get your podcasts.

MLS

Toronto FC are breaking the bank to sign Italian international Lorenzo Insigne. The Napoli captain is expected to join MLS this summer and make a record $13 million per year. He has scored 10 goals in 53 caps for Italy, won the Euro 2020 title, and has 11 goals across 30 Champions League games for Napoli.

Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images

After winning the Golden Boot and MLS Cup this season, Taty Castellanos could be looking to cash in. Brazilian side Palmeiras have reportedly made a bid around $12.5 million for the 23 year old striker. New York City FC are reportedly wanting upwards of $15 million for their talisman so we’ll have to see how this ends up.

Around the World

Leicester City dealt Liverpool a blow in their quest for the Premier League crown, the Foxes coming away 1-0 winners against the Reds. Kasper Schmeichel saved a Mo Salah penalty in the first half and Ademola Lookman scored the lone goal of the match in the second half.

Barcelona completed the signing of Spanish winger Ferran Torres from Manchester City. The 21 year old arrives for a fee of $55 million and has signed a contract with Barcelona until 2027 with a $1 billion release clause.