CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Independence announced on Thursday the club had acquired midfielder Viggo Ortiz via transfer from the USL Championship’s Charleston Battery. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Ortiz joins the Independence after spending the past two seasons with the Battery, where he recorded one goal in four appearances for the club. The 17-year-old made his professional debut in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on April 15 against South Georgia Tormenta FC, and recorded his first professional goal on October 13 against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, becoming the second-youngest goal scorer in Charleston history.

“We are excited to welcome a promising young talent to the Independence in Viggo,” said Charlotte Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “Viggo’s technical qualities are exceptional, and he brings an attacking mindset and presence to our group. We look forward to his contributions this season and to supporting his continued development as a player.”

A native of Dallas, Texas, Ortiz represents Mexico at the youth national team level. He has earned 15 appearances across Mexico’s youth national teams, including two appearances and a goal at the 2025 Concacaf U-17 Championship. As a dual citizen, Ortiz is eligible to compete for both Mexico and the United States in international competition.

“I’m incredibly blessed and excited for this new chapter in my career and to wear the Charlotte badge,” said Ortiz. “I can’t wait to play in front of the fans and show the kind of player I am.”