Frankie Amaya wants to leave FC Cincinnati - Response to transfer rumours?

FC Cincinnati midfielder Frankie Amaya has requested a trade. The Athletic were the first to report the story on Thursday. The 20-year-old Amaya was drafted by the club in 2019 and since seen his market value grow to $2.2 million after featuring in 43 games for FC Cincy across all competitions (one goal). 

“I’ve given everything to Cincinnati and the fans over the last two years and I will always be grateful for their support and kindness,” Amaya said in a statement provided to The Athletic. “During this offseason, I’ve realized that the club doesn’t have the same level of commitment to me, so I have asked the club to trade me as I don’t feel my goals can be achieved in Cincinnati.”

Multiple clubs have shown their interest in Amaya in the past. Some sources believe that the playmaker could fetch in the region of $1 million in allocation money plus a sell-on clause—a sizeable fee, given that allocation money is worth more than direct transfer dollars. Cincinnati thus far has rejected any offer stating that Amaya remains a major part of the club's plans. 

Amaya frustrated with losing? - Club has also been looking for a new playmaker

Amaya's original frustration appears to be linked to the club's losing record over the last couple of seasons. But FC Cincinnati recently paid a club-record fee for Brazilian striker Brenner. Furthermore, Cincy want to bring in a playmaker and a heavily linked with Pity Martínez and Luciano Acosta. To acquire either player Cincinnati would have to make a trade (for more background click here). In theory Amaya could be part of such a package. As either player would provide direct competition for the 20-year-old.