Photo: Celta Vigo
CHICAGO, IL–It would be interesting to see when and if Chicago Fire FC would sign their first designated player under Gregg Berhalter. On Tuesday, they did that as they signed Ivory Coast International Jonathan Bamba from La Liga side Celta Vigo for a reported fee of $2 million.
Bamba will occupy an international spot on the Fire’s roster, pending receipt of his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate. His contract will run through the 2027 MLS season, with a club option for 2028.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Jonathan to the Chicago Fire. He has competed in two of Europe’s top leagues and played an instrumental role in Lille’s Ligue 1 title run,” said Chicago Fire FC Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter. “His experience, work rate, and ability to break down defenses will be a huge asset as we look to build a strong team for the upcoming season. Jonathan is a talented player who fits our values and philosophy, and we’re excited to welcome him to Chicago in the prime of his career.”
Bamba joined Celta Vigo in July 2023 after a successful spell with Ligue 1 side Lille. At Celta Vigo, Bamba scored six goals and three assists. At Lille, he tallied 29 goals and 35 assists in 200 appearances. After initially playing for France at the youth level, Bamba switched to the Ivory Coast where he was part of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations winning side.
“I’m very happy to join Chicago Fire FC at such an important moment for the Club,” said Bamba. “The direction the team is heading, both on and off the field, is very exciting, and I’m looking forward to contributing to its future success. I’m ready for this new challenge and can’t wait to work with my new coaches and teammates to achieve great things together.”
The Fire hope that this is a designated player that will go well in attack with fellow DP Hugo Cuypers and recent TAM signing Philip Zinckernagel. The Fire have one designated player spot remaining and the conventional wisdom on that spot is that the Fire are hoping to land a central attacking midfielder.
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