Middlesbrough Set to Sign MLS Star

Middlesbrough are set to secure the signing of Charlotte FC star Adilson Malanda for a fee rumoured to be around $8m with add-ons, according to MLS specialist Tom Bogert.

Malanda, 23, has plied his trade in the United States since 2022, when Charlotte FC brought him stateside after breaking through in Ligue 2 with Rodez.

Have to say, I’m liking the sound of Adilson Malanda. Sounds like a bit of a coup! #RavWho #UTB #Boro pic.twitter.com/htITEBz6UT

— For The Love Of Boro / James (@FTLOB98) August 18, 2025

Known for his tough, physical nature and astute positional awareness, Malanda quickly became a fan favourite in North Carolina, racking up 71 MLS appearances as a key part of the Charlotte FC back line.

His performances have seen his market value grow exponentially, and the Frenchman is now set for a move to England by way of Championship side Middlesbrough, who are aiming to push for promotion this season with wins in both of their opening league fixtures.

Malanda Made for Middlesbrough Move

Adilson Malanda may be a defender ready-made for the rough edges of the Championship.

Standing at 6'1, the French youngster has prided himself during his formative years in the MLS on his positional sense and physical, aggressive manner of defending - the 23-year-old has picked up 16 yellow cards and one dismissal across his American years.

His strong form had seen him linked with a number of clubs across Europe, such as PSV, Club Brugge and Benfica, but a move to Teeside appears to be the next step in his promising career.

Sources: Charlotte FC will receive around $8m + add ons from Middlesbrough for Adilson Malanda.

Charlotte retain sell on clause.

Again, Malanda remains in Charlotte until January https://t.co/fzRIbJKmpX

— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) August 19, 2025

However, Middlesbrough fans will have to wait longer still to see their new man in action - Malanda is expected to be loaned immediately back into MLS to see out the rest of Charlotte FC's season. The Crown, led by former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith, currently sit in 10th position with seven games to play in the regular season before making a claim to the MLS playoffs, which ends on December 6th, 2025.

Malanda will likely not play a part in that playoff hunt, according to Teesside Live - the defender will take a short break upon the end of the MLS regular season in October before linking up with his new side on the 1st of January, 2026.

Malanda would be the 7th signing made by Boro ahead of their promotion aspirations, with Rob Edwards seeking his second Premier League promotion in his career, having achieved the feat with Luton Town back in 2023.