Villarreal have completed the signing of United States international Alex Freeman, finalizing a move that keeps the 21-year-old at the club until 2032 as the Yellow Submarine strengthens their squad for the second half of the season.
The right back arrives from Orlando City following a breakout MLS campaign, with Villarreal moving decisively to add a defender they believe is ready to compete immediately in LaLiga as they sit fourth in the Spanish top flight.
The deal is understood to be worth around four million dollars upfront, with performance-related add-ons that could take the total fee beyond seven million. Orlando City has also secured a sell-on clause, reflecting the growing value of one of Major League Soccer’s standout young defenders.
Freeman’s move to Spain is the culmination of rapid progress over the past year. During the 2025 season, he became a regular starter for Orlando, earned MLS Young Player of the Year honors, and was named an All-Star, establishing himself among the league’s most reliable fullbacks.
Villarreal’s interest was not sudden. The club had explored a move last summer but was met with resistance, only returning once Orlando was prepared to negotiate. His arrival continues a familiar strategy for the Spanish side, who have a long history of identifying talent from the United States and MLS, most recently with the signing of Tani Oluwaseyi from Minnesota United.
At club level, Freeman is valued for his athletic profile and attacking intent. Comfortably advancing from the right flank, he combines pace and strength with the ability to contribute higher up the pitch, traits that fit Villarreal’s approach in wide areas.
The setting now shifts to LaLiga, where Freeman will be challenged by a faster tempo and higher tactical demands. Villarreal believes his physical attributes and adaptability will allow him to integrate quickly, particularly as they balance domestic ambitions with European qualification targets.
His rise has also carried onto the international stage. Freeman has broken into the United States men’s national team setup and is part of the new cycle under Mauricio Pochettino, placing himself firmly in contention ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
For Villarreal, the signing represents both immediate reinforcement and long-term planning. For Freeman, it is a defining step into European football, one that could shape his development at the club and international level in the years ahead.
