By Billy McGee
June 13, 2026
Photo: Sipa USA (AP)
Charlotte FC has filled their open Designated Player spot with the signing of 29-year-old French winger Allan Saint-Maximin on a three-year deal. Saint-Maximin joins the Crown on a free transfer after featuring for Ligue 1 side RC Lens.
Throughout his career, Saint-Maximin has been known for his electric pace, elite dribbling ability, and willingness to take on defenders in isolated situations. He has recorded double-digit goal contributions in multiple seasons, including productive spells with OGC Nice, Newcastle United, Al-Ahli, and most recently RC Lens. His recent form in France offers optimism for Charlotte, as he recorded three goals and three assists in 10 appearances, including two starts, during his time with Lens.
Following Wilfried Zaha’s departure after the conclusion of his loan spell, Charlotte entered the summer window with a vacancy on the wing and need for more attacking creativity. Saint-Maximin fits the profile Charlotte has targeted: an explosive, one-versus-one winger with the ability to stretch defenses and create chances. With extensive experience across Europe’s top leagues, he joins Ashley Westwood, Tim Ream and Harry Toffolo as Charlotte FC players who have previously played in the English Premier League.
The addition gives Charlotte a dynamic attacking piece, but as things currently stand, the club’s roster flexibility remains limited heading into the summer window. To bring in additional reinforcements, Charlotte will likely need to move players out and create roster space. One potential option could be parting ways with Liel Abada, who has seen limited minutes over the past season and a half and has yet to deliver the level of production expected from a Designated Player.
The MLS Secondary Transfer Window, which now aligns more closely with the summer transfer period used by many of Europe’s top leagues, runs from July 13 through September 2 and will serve as the primary opportunity for clubs to add reinforcements, reshape their rosters, and make late-season moves ahead of the Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs.
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