New York City FC to acquire Keaton Parks from Benfica on permanent deal

New York City FC are securing the services of midfielder Keaton Parks on a permanent basis, according to a Thursday report from The Athletic’s Paul Tenorio, after the Texan impressed on a season-long loan stint from Benfica in 2019.

Parks, 22, started 14 league matches (22 MLS appearances) for the Cityzens last year, earning a key role in central midfield after proving himself to since-departed coach Dome Torrent in the early months of his loan. His contributions helped NYCFC finish tops in the Eastern Conference regular-season standings and second in the Supporters’ Shield race.

The US international scored a goal and an assist in MLS action and chipped in two more goals in U.S. Open Cup play, while establishing himself as one of the top young box-to-box midfielders in the league.

Portuguese reports in November suggested that he’d return to Benfica for 2020, but it appears that NYCFC are ready to commit to Parks with a transfer deal and long-term contract.