LAFC signs 19-year-old Uruguayan forward Brian Rodríguez

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LOS ANGELES (AP) — Los Angeles FC has acquired 19-year-old Uruguayan forward Brian Rodríguez.

Rodríguez heads to MLS after scoring one goal in nine games for Peñarol in Uruguay's top league. The forward is considered one of the top young talents in South America, and LAFC sold veteran forward Christian Ramirez to Houston to create the space to acquire him.

Rodríguez will team up with Diego Rossi, his fellow Uruguayan and Peñarol product. Rossi has scored 25 goals — including the first in team history — in 55 games since joining LAFC for its inaugural season.

LAFC and Peñarol also announced an extensive partnership that includes an exchange of coaching, academy and player resources.

Powerhouse LAFC (16-3-4) has a 10-point lead atop the overall MLS standings.