The San Jose Earthquakes made a big move ahead of the closing of the MLS transfer window, signing attacking midfielder Hernan Lopez from Argentine side Godoy Cruz. The transfer is reportedly the most expensive in the club’s history.
According to The Athletic’s Tom Bogert, the Earthquakes formally completed the deal on Tuesday. It will see the club pay $6 million to River for Lopez’s services, while the player is expected to ink a Designated Player contract. San Jose’s previous biggest transfer was signing Ecuadorian midfielder Carlos Gruezo for $2.9 million in 2023.
Hernan Lopez started his professional career with Argentina’s Primera División powerhouse River Plate, receiving his debut in 2019. He later spent time on loan with Central Córdoba before joining Godoy Cruz on loan in 2023. River and Godoy owned 50% of Lopez’s rights each before his transfer to San Jose.
Lopez played 13 games for Godoy in 2024, scoring two goals. In 2023, he scored five goals and added six assists in 38 matches in all competitions.
San Jose Earthquakes have been the worst club in MLS this season, sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference with one win and eight losses in their first nine games. Adding Lopez is expected to greatly improve their squad and perhaps help them turn around their campaign.
