Columbus Crew sign MLS legend Josef Martínez

Columbus Crew have moved to bring Venezuelan striker Josef Martínez back to Major League Soccer on a deal that reunites the prolific forward with the club where he claimed the Golden Boot award. Martínez, who netted 96 goals across his first stint with the Black & Gold between 2017 and 2022, brings elite finishing credentials to a Crew outfit that finished second in the Eastern Conference last season and reached the MLS Cup Final.

The acquisition addresses Columbus's attacking ambitions as they pursue their first MLS Cup title since 2008. Martínez holds the MLS single-season scoring record with 37 goals in 2018, a mark that underscores his ability to deliver goals at the highest domestic level. His previous career path—including stints in the Mexican league and with Atlanta United—demonstrates his experience across multiple major competitions, making him a proven commodity in MLS's competitive landscape.

Martínez must now prove he can recapture the form that made him one of MLS's most feared strikers, having made 28 appearances last season across his recent engagements. Columbus remain in contention for Champions Cup qualification and will look to leverage his experience and proven goal-scoring pedigree as they chase silverware. The signing carries minimal financial risk whilst offering the franchise a genuine opportunity to add depth to their attacking armoury ahead of the new campaign.