Chicago City Wire

Chicago Fire FC II has announced the acquisition of forward Claudio Cassano from AS Cittadella, a club in Italy's Serie B. Cassano's contract with Chicago Fire FC II will last until 2027, with an option for 2028. Financial terms were not disclosed.

"Claudio is a young and exciting talent, and we see him as a player with the potential to impact the first team," stated Gregg Broughton, Sporting Director of Chicago Fire FC. "His signing highlights our focus on utilizing Chicago Fire FC II and MLS NEXT Pro to develop players who can quickly transition to MLS. We are excited to support Claudio's continued growth and look forward to his contributions to the Club."

The 21-year-old joins Chicago Fire II after six years in AS Roma's youth system before transferring to AS Cittadella in August 2023. Cassano debuted in Serie B on August 26, 2023, playing 32 minutes in a 2-0 win against Parma. He has since played 42 matches for Cittadella, scoring four goals and providing three assists.

"Claudio is a special talent, and bringing someone who came through AS Roma's ranks shows the elevation of standards we are setting at the Club," said Alex Boler, General Manager of Chicago Fire II. "We are confident he will fit into our environment and philosophy, and we are excited to welcome him to Chicago."

While at AS Roma, Cassano won the Primavera Coppa Italia during the 2022-23 season after playing with their under-17, under-18, and under-20 teams. With Roma, he scored 40 goals and recorded 15 assists across all age groups. His work rate caught the attention of then-Roma coach José Mourinho, who included him in the squad for Roma’s Europa League match against Real Betis on October 13, 2022.

Internationally, Cassano has appeared three times for Italy's Under-20 Men's National Team in Group 1 of the European Elite League against Czechia, Germany, and Romania.

Transaction: Chicago Fire FC II acquires forward Claudio Cassano. His contract with MLS NEXT Pro extends until 2027 with an option for 2028.