Amid the big-money signings by rival New York City FC and even expansion Atlanta, many Red Bulls fans wondered if the club still was ambitious or just plain cheap. Then they pulled off one of the most expensive transfers in league history by landing Alejandro Romero Gamarra.

They acquired Gamarra — nicknamed el Kaku — from Argentine side Huracan, who confirmed the deal. The Red Bulls will fork over a $5 million transfer fee that is not only a club record but one of the heftiest in MLS history. They also will cover another $1.25 million in taxes and expenses, making it a huge investment.

But they’re convinced the 22-year-old midfielder is worth it, a building-block player. He has a goal and three assists so far this season playing for Huracan, with most of his work coming on the left wing, but he excelled in his only start at attacking midfelder as well. He also has played for Argentina’s under-20 National Team.

With the Red Bulls attack stagnating last season when winger Daniel Royer got hurt and 32-year-old central midfield playmaker Sacha Kljestan reportedly on the verge of being moved elsewhere within the league, they may have found a long-term answer to complement Royer and succeed Kljestan.

Gamarra reportedly hammered out the move working without an agent, seemingly indicating a strong desire to get the transfer done. Not turning 23 until January, he will qualify as a so-called young designated player. That means instead of counting $518,000 against the salary cap this upcoming season, he would count just $200,000. That’s a noteworthy savings for the Red Bulls to strengthen the squad.