Rumor: Atlanta United make offer to Robbie Keane

A few days ago, we listed the pros and cons of Robbie Keane possibly coming to Atlanta. That speculation took an interesting turn today.

Earlier today, MLS Transfers, a popular rumors twitter account, claimed that Atlanta United’s interest in the Irishman is very real, stating that the club have a legitimate offer on the table for the Galaxy DP.

Keane confirmed he was leaving the Los Angeles Galaxy last week, stating “Now is the right time for a new challenge”. Heading to an expansion team would certainly be a new challenge.

Immediate questions come to mind. First, would Keane be a Designated Player signing? He was a DP with the Galaxy, but perhaps Atlanta United could use the extra General Allocation Money they receive from MLS, due to the decrease in Expansion Draft picks, to convince Keane to sign on as a non-DP. Would that be enough remains to be seen.

Keane could also be acquired through a trade. Considering he isn’t eligible for MLS Free Agency, the Galaxy still own his rights. Perhaps Atlanta United players, Allocation money or Rankings, or MLS Superdraft picks could entice them.

A few days ago, Fox Sports reporter Julie Stewart-Binks claimed Vancouver and Minnesota United were in the mix.

Something else to consider, Keane has previously expressed his dismay for artificial turf fields back in 2014 during an interview with Sports Illustrated.

Will that be enough to turn him away from Atlanta? He seems to feel pretty strongly about it.

All that being said, who knows what’s going to happen? What do you guys think about the possibility of Robbie Keane to Atlanta United?