Major League Soccer has rapidly evolved into one of the most attractive destinations for elite footballers approaching the latter stages of their careers — especially after Lionel Messi’s blockbuster move to Inter Miami in 2023. Since then, stars like Luis Suárez, Thomas Müller, and Son Heung-min have followed suit, significantly boosting the profile of MLS globally. With the 2026 World Cup being partly hosted in the United States, speculation is growing over which high-profile players might make the trip Stateside next.
Antoine Griezmann MLS Transfer Update
French forward Antoine Griezmann, a 2018 World Cup winner with France and a long-time La Liga stalwart, is one of the names most strongly linked with a move to MLS in 2026. While still under contract at Atlético Madrid, reports indicate that MLS clubs are actively monitoring his situation, with Orlando City SC holding his MLS discovery rights and pursuing discussions for a potential transfer.
Casemiro’s Future After Manchester United
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, a five-time UEFA Champions League winner, is widely expected to leave Manchester United once his contract expires in the summer of 2026. Although Saudi clubs have shown interest, MLS is also considered a plausible destination given the league’s growing ability to recruit marquee players.
Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool Exit Rumours
Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah has been at the centre of ongoing speculation regarding his future. While traditionally linked with European or Middle Eastern moves, reports have also floated the possibility of MLS interest, particularly if Salah seeks a new challenge as he approaches the final years of his career.
Could Ronaldo Return to Face Messi?
Arguably the biggest name in global football, Cristiano Ronaldo, has been discussed in MLS transfer chatter, primarily as a tantalising hypothetical. Though now with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League and well into his late 30s/early 40s, links to MLS have surfaced occasionally, largely centred around the narrative of reigniting his rivalry with Lionel Messi on American soil.
MLS Discovery Rights Explained
MLS uses a unique mechanism known as discovery rights to regulate how clubs secure priority claims on players not currently playing in the league. Each MLS club maintains a list of players for whom they hold discovery rights; owning those rights means a team has first refusal on negotiating a contract if that player decides to join MLS.
For example, Orlando City’s hold on Griezmann’s discovery rights gives them an advantage over other teams in acquiring him should he choose to make the move. Similarly, Chicago Fire’s discovery rights on Robert Lewandowski highlight how MLS clubs strategically invest in these claims as part of long-term recruitment planning.
