TAM: “I’m delighted to be joining Atlanta United”

Tuesday, Atlanta United acquired $75,000 in Targeted Allocation Money (TAM) from San Jose Earthquakes in exchange for a 2017 international roster spot. TAM spoke exclusively to Dirty South Soccer following it’s arrival at the Capital of the South.

“I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Atlanta United. It’s been a boyhood dream of mine to p[l]ay for this club, this town, in front of these amazing team accountants,” said TAM Tuesday afternoon over the phone.

Tata Martino said he’s delighted with the business and can’t wait to get to work with TAM.

“I think it’s a wonderful little signing, you know? I’ve worked with him before and seen TAM develop over the years,” Martino explained. “I’ve seen lots of rumors about TAM possibly moving to Europe, but I’m delighted he’s agreed to join Atlanta.

“I told TAM, I said if you want to reach that next level in your career, you’re best off coming here, working and learning from the best under the likes of Darren Eales and Paul McDonough. He was a bit unsure on the phone call we initially had, but I told the TAM, I said, ‘Listen, you can work with Jeff Larentowicz.’ He was immediately sold on the project and we’re happy to introduce him.”

Darren Eales was just as happy as his manager that the club were able to get the deal over the line.

“TAM is a terrific little asset that we’ve had our eye on for some time now,” Eales explained. “I phoned up Chris Leitch and asked about TAM and he said ‘no chance.’ Well as soon as I said the words “International slot,” the call went a bit silent and I heard a slight quiver. I knew at that point we’d be able to make a deal and I’m so happy to get this one over the line.”

Stay tuned to Dirty South Soccer for the latest breaking news and development about TAM’s arrival in the A.