Several sources tell EOS the New York Red Bulls are in hot pursuit of Montreal Impact playmaker, Felipe Martins — and they may be willing to let go of value to get him.
According to one source, the Impact have been receptive to the inquiries, offering a like-for-like trade, sending Martins to New York for second year MLS player and Cameroonian international, Ambroise Oyongo.
Martins, 24, began his MLS career with the Impact in 2012, scoring four goals and assisting on 10 on the season. That also happened to be the first year of the franchise’s participation in MLS, with new Red Bull boss Jesse Marsch at their helm.
That connection sparked Marsch to identify Martins as a player of interest from the moment he arrived in New York. Martins has consistently started from 28-30 matches for Montreal in his three seasons, scoring 12 goals and assisting 24 in that time. Moreover, he represents another viable option at the attacking midfield spot, giving New York a bevy of choices with veteran Peguy Luyindula and rookie Leo Stolz fighting for minutes in the middle.
Oyongo, 23, was a breakout star for the Red Bulls during the 2014 season. Once an afterthought, the Cameroonian international earned the trust of New York’s coaching staff, filling in admirably for starting left back Roy Miller while the Costa Rican participated in the World Cup. He also proved to be an explosive figure on the left midfield spot. In total, the speedy Oyongo managed three assists in 11 starts and 13 appearances with the Red Bulls.
The deal is still in a state of flux, with the Red Bulls hesitant on parting with Oyongo. Still, their interest in Martins is real and may push the team to weigh out losses in order to acquire a signature.
Speaking to league sources, this is just one of many moves New York are pursuing. The Red Bulls are in the midst of a flurry of moves meant to buoy the club ahead of the coming preseason training camp. They have also begun to send invites to potential trialists for the February camps.
Archived content originally from EmpireOfSoccer.com by Dave Martinez
