Bundesliga veteran with Atlanta ties interested in MLS

Atlanta United have yet to sign a defender. Well, how about a Bundesliga veteran that has expressed interest in heading to MLS? Sounds like a great place to start.

Marcel Schafer, a 32-year-old German who has spent the last ten seasons with Wolfsburg, told the Washington Post he may try to play out his career with MLS when his contract expires in June. Now why would Schafer consider Atlanta? Luckily, his mother lives close to the city. “The move seemed right.” said Schafer.

However, he goes on to say that the recent presidential election is forcing him to reconsider.

At the end of the day, this decision will obviously come down to him. Ignoring the politics of it all, Schafer would be an excellent acquisition for Atlanta United and Tata Martino’s system. He is listed as a left fullback that loves to get upfield and send crosses into the box.

Schafer has been a staple of Wolfsburg since 2007. He is currently tied for the all-time appearances record in the club’s history with 234. However, he has only made three appearances with the team this season. A lack of playing time may be enough for Schafer to make the decision to head to MLS.

The other issue is whether Atlanta United would have to wait until his contract expires in June to acquire his services. Schafer has said that would be the case, but I’m sure a deal could be worked out in the January transfer window if Atlanta United insists on it.

He could also come as a bargain. I don’t think Schafer would need to be a Designated Player signing. Think of a player like Kenwyne Jones. Jones is a DP-caliber signing, but he’s not a DP. Schafer also has little leverage to make himself so considering he’s not an incredibly well-known player, as well as the aforementioned lack of playing time.

A player with Schafer’s experience could bring a wealth of knowledge to a team that will look to be a cohesive unit as soon as possible. Let’s just hope MLS is where he still wants to end up.