Talkin’ Dirty: A rumor roundup for Atlanta United

This week, we’ve had players supposedly signing with Atlanta United because the club’s Spanish language Wikipedia page was updated and because they’ve fallen out of favor at their current club. Welcome to Talkin’ Dirty where we’ll look at the recent rumors around the team and see if they’re worth following.

Important reminder: Rumors are just that -- rumors. None of this has been confirmed as legitimate news or fact, it's just circulating around the rumor mill. Remember, take it all with a grain of salt.

Also, it is Atlanta United club policy to not comment on rumors.

Juan Vargas

Vargas is a 33-year-old left back/left midfielder who is currently unattached after playing last season with Real Betis in Spain. He is from Peru originally and has played 48 times for the national time. He has spent the majority of his career in Italy, playing over 200 games in Serie A.

The rumor started when Vargas was included on the roster list on the club’s Spanish language Wikipedia page. So far, there has been nothing else to further this rumor. Through conversations with our contacts, we have no confirmation of this signing being imminent.

Diego Arias

Arias is a 31-year-old defensive midfielder currently with Copa Libertadores champions Atletico Nacional in Colombia. He has not played with the club in the current season and his last appearance was as a substitute in the second leg of the Copa Libertadores final. He started the first leg. The Colombian is known as a good passer, and has played the majority of his career in his native country with the exception of a stint at PAOK in Greece.

The rumor has basically centered around Tata Martino’s “interest” in Arias and nothing more. With him not playing currently at Nacional, anything is possible.

Maza Rodriguez

Francisco ‘Maza’ Rodriguez is the latest rumor. With the 35-year-old out of Cruz Azul manager Tomas Boy’s plans, there are rumors that he could be Atlanta bound. Rodriguez has played over 100 times for Mexico at center back and spent extensive time in Europe with PSV and Stuttgart before returning to Mexico in 2013.

Medio Tiempo is a credible news outlet and they mention that sources close to the player mention that Rodriguez has talked to United. This is one to monitor. While Rodriguez is nearing the end of his career, he would bring a wealth of experience to a young squad. He would also be a great figure for the Mexican community to rally around in Atlanta.