Major League football side FC Cincinnati will not buy the Dutch striker Jurgen Locadia at the end of his loan, general manager Gerard Nijkamp confirmed on Thursday.
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Before arriving at MLS, Locadia played for Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion. The loan originally extended over six months but due to Covid-19 delays both parties agreed to lower a call option and extend his time at the club until June 2021. Despite the player’s involvement in FC Cincinnati’s success, he will not continue with the team.
“I spoke to Brighton last week, of course, when I was there,” Nijkamp told Queen City Press’ Laurel Pfahler. “We will not exercise his choice. It is clear, but the door is still a bit open if there are other ways, perhaps, to consider on our part to keep Jürgen … the door is not closed 100 percent but I also think that will be difficult. “
The Dutch player first arrived in Cincinnati with high hopes, but struggled to find the net often – managed only two goals in 18 appearances.
Jurgen Locadia plays for FC Cincinnati vs. New England Revolution / Emilee Chinn / Getty Images
Locadia’s performance in Major League Soccer was disappointing, especially after seeing the player thrive with PSV Eindhoven. Locadia scored 72 goals and 42 assists with PSV Eindhoven (2011-17), Brighton (2018-20) and TSG Hoffenheim (2019-20).
The Dutch striker has three games left to prove himself with FC Cincinnati before returning to England.
Despite CEO Gerard Nijkamp’s comments, the door is not completely closed for Locadia at FC Cincinnati. He does not rule out a move in the future, while MLSsoccer.com reports that the MLS club and Brighton will remain in contact with the player.
