Transfer Rumor: Orlando City Linked with Leon Striker Leo Ramos

The silly season never sleeps, even during a pandemic. As per usual custom, Orlando City is in the thick of things, as several online reports have linked Club Leon striker Leo Ramos with a move from the Liga MX side to Orlando City. Those seem to stem from a tweet by reporter Diana Mac.

Ramos, 30, has six goals in 20 appearances since 2019 with Club Leon. Prior to that, he spent 23 games on loan with Lobos BUAP, scoring 16 times in 23 appearances. His time with Leon has been stunted a bit due to minor knocks and he was reportedly not the best fit with Leon’s style of play, but he seems like a Liga MX-capable striker and would likely do well in MLS.

However, there doesn’t seem to be much to this transfer rumor at the moment. The Mane Land has learned that even though Ramos is on Orlando City’s radar, there have been no discussions with Club Leon about the player or with Ramos or his representation thus far.

Our sources also indicate that Orlando City could make a move for a striker in the near future if the right player comes along at the right price. Dom Dwyer has yet to score in 2020, although he’s played only twice and did set up a goal Tuesday night on what turned out to be the game-winner from Chris Mueller. Dwyer’s deal is up at the end of 2020 and the Lions will have to decide whether to bring him back and, if so, at what price. Or he will need to be replaced. Even if Dwyer is brought back, the club could still bring in another forward.

What This Means for Orlando City

Honestly, this doesn’t mean much, because right now there’s no deal looming. Even if Ramos isn’t in the team’s imminent plans, things can move quickly in the transfer market and if a more preferred option doesn’t pan out, Ramos talks could happen at some point in the future. Orlando is smart to look for a way to bolster the forward position, regardless of whether Dwyer comes back.

Ramos can play center forward or on the right side of the forward line. These are both positions that Orlando would no doubt like to strengthen. But Mueller’s recent form and the potential of Benji Michel are currently keeping the right side from being a major concern for the moment.

Transfermarkt estimates Ramos’ current market value to be about $2.7 million. That price tag is a bit high, given recent production. But for the right price he could potentially be a good option, even if he isn’t the big, splashy name that fans might want the club to sign. He would, however, require an international slot.

But for now, the rumors seem to only be rumors.