Cruz Azul reportedly reject Charlotte FC loan bid for Giorgos Giakoumakis

Cruz Azul has reportedly turned down a loan offer from Charlotte FC for Greek striker Giorgos Giakoumakis, as the Liga MX side is only interested in a permanent sale. According to MLS insider Tom Bogert, the Mexican club made it clear they have no intention of sending the player out on loan.

Giakoumakis, who previously played for Atlanta United, has experience in MLS and could be on the move again. Reports out of Mexico indicate Cruz Azul is looking to offload the forward outright after an underwhelming run - just nine goals in 34 appearances since joining La Máquina.

Despite the loan rejection, talks between the two clubs remain active, and Giakoumakis’ future is expected to be resolved in the coming days. The striker has also been absent from Cruz Azul training recently, reportedly without the club’s permission, signaling he’s no longer in manager Nicolás Larcamón’s plans.

Giakoumakis enjoyed a strong spell during his time in MLS, scoring 22 goals in 38 games with Atlanta United. His debut season earned him the 2023 MLS Newcomer of the Year award. Charlotte FC hope to pair him up front with Ivorian star Wilfried Zaha, creating one of the league’s most dynamic attacking duos.

Charlotte currently sit ninth in the Eastern Conference with 32 points and will face Giakoumakis’ former team, Atlanta United, this Saturday in MLS Week 24.