Atlanta United’s approach to expansion might be the most aggressive MLS has ever seen. From the start, the club has proven as ambitious and savvy in equal measure, taking full advantage of moves both domestic and abroad to construct the core of its starting roster.

Signings like Kenwyne Jones, Hector Villalba, Greg Garza and Miguel Almiron brought exciting new faces to MLS, while the additions of Michael Parkhurst, Zach Loyd and Jeff Larentowicz provide a veteran spine. Add in youngsters like Andrew Carleton and Brandon Vasquez and Atlanta United has a very exciting mix of both young and experienced heading to year one.

Still, there’s plenty of work to be done, and just a few short months remain before Atlanta United begins its inaugural MLS campaign. A reported move for Brad Guzan remains a possibility, and Atlanta is still actively pursuing a third DP signing, while there are still holes to fill leading up to preseason.

With that in mind, here is a closer look at what’s been done and what’s left to be done heading into the new year:

WHO’S IN

Miguel Almiron, Greg Garza, Kenwyne Jones, Hector Villalba, Michael Parkhurst, Zach Loyd, Mark Bloom, Jeff Larentowicz, Andrew Carleton, Brandon Vasquez, Mikey Ambrose, Jacob Peterson

WHO’S OUT

Sean Johnson

DRAFT PICKS

1st Round: No. 2 overall, No. 8 overall (Acquired from Orlando City in exchange for Donny Toia)

3rd Round: No. 46 overall

4th Round: No. 68 overall

REMAINING NEEDS

Atlanta has done a fairly good job of balancing out its roster, but there are still some holes. Goalkeeper remains one until Guzan walks through the door but, even if he doesn’t the club could be in worse shape. At 26-years-old, former Sporting KC goalkeeper Alex Kann does have MLS games under his belt and could provide temporary cover if needed. Still, it’s assumed that Atlanta United has a bigger plan in mind with Kann remaining a capable backup.

Centerback remains the biggest question mark, and the team is expected to make a push in the international market in the coming weeks. Given the connections of head coach Gerardo Martino, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the club add another South American contributor, one that can step in alongside Parkhurst or Loyd to anchor the backline.

OUTLOOK

All things considered, Atlanta United laid a strong foundation in the months leading up to the new year. The draft will likely offer a star forward in Jeremy Ebobisse, Abu Danladi or Jackson Yueill, while defender Miles Robinson could be the selection of the club is looking towards grooming a defender for the future.

With just 20 players on the roster, there’s still room for more signings, and it wouldn’t be surprising to add further depth in the coming weeks. The starting positions atop the field seem set with Jones, Almiron and Villalba leading the charge, while fullback is held down by Garza, Ambrose and Bloom. With Parkhurst in the middle, the spine is fairly strong, even if the club could use a bit more juice in the midfield.

Overall, Atlanta is off to a strong start and, with a high-profile manager like Martino at the helm, expectations are high. Expansion seasons have been historically difficult, but Atlanta United’s proactive approach to roster building could set the club up for year-one success if management can plug the final gaps leading into 2017.