Athletico has finalized the signing of Colombian right winger Kerwin Vargas from Charlotte FC in a deal worth around 8 million dollars, including fixed payments and variables. The 24-year-old is expected to sign a contract with the club until 2030. Other Brazilian teams, including Grêmio, Corinthians, São Paulo, and Santos, were also interested in Vargas, but Athletico's project was successful. Vargas joined Charlotte FC in May 2022 and has 2 caps and 2 goals for the Colombia U23 team. For the 2025/2026 season in Major League Soccer, he made 15 appearances, scored 2 goals, and provided 3 assists. His current Transfermarkt market value is €3.50m.