Report: Atlanta to sign Paraguay international Oscar Romero as DP

Atlanta United is quickly assembling a competitive squad with a distinct Paraguayan flavor.

The expansion franchise is close to signing 24-year-old midfielder Oscar Romero from Argentine side Racing Club for $6-7 million, according to ESPN FC's Jeff Carlisle.

The Paraguay international would join Atlanta as its third Designated Player, alongside compatriot Miguel Almiron and 21-year-old Hector Villalba.

Carlile confirmed the move with a league source, which further indicated Romero would earn around $2 million per season on a DP contract.

Former Argentina and Barcelona manager "Tata" Martino has fished for talent in his native South America since accepting the Atlanta job in August.

All three DPs have attacking characteristics, with Almiron and Villalba able to play on the wings and Romero in the No. 10 role.

The latest of the big signings, Romero has scored twice for his country in 26 appearances. He featured in this summer's Copa America Centenario, and has started in five World Cup qualifiers.

News of Romero's imminent signing comes on the same day Atlanta added goalkeeper Alec Kann, defender Zach Loyd, and right-back Mikey Ambrose through Tuesday's Expansion Draft. The new MLS franchise also picked up shot stopper Clint Irwin and left-back Donny Toia, but dealt both to Toronto FC and Orlando City, respectively, for defender Mark Bloom, general allocation money, and 2017's eighth-overall draft pick.