The summer transfer window of 2026 is expected to bring several top football stars from prominent European clubs to Major League Soccer (MLS) teams in the United States. Since Lionel Messi’s high-profile move to Inter Miami in 2023, the league has attracted a growing number of renowned players, including James Rodriguez, Son Heung-min, and Thomas Müller, with Luis Suarez already playing alongside Messi in Miami. This surge signals a continued trend of elite talent heading to MLS.
Among the prominent names potentially joining MLS in 2026, six footballers stand out as likely candidates to make a significant impact in the league.
Potential High-Profile Transfers to MLS in the 2026 Summer Window
Philippe Coutinho, once a record-signing move for FC Barcelona in 2018 for up to £142 million, has experienced a varied career with spells at Liverpool alongside Mohamed Salah, Bayern Munich, Aston Villa, Al-Duhail, and currently his boyhood club Vasco da Gama. Although he did not meet expectations in Spain, MLS’s LA Galaxy have reportedly been in talks with Coutinho’s representatives. The Galaxy could see Coutinho as a strategic replacement for Riqui Puig, who faces a lengthy absence through the 2026 MLS season due to an ACL injury.
Bernardo Silva, a decorated player with six Premier League titles, multiple domestic cups, a UEFA Champions League, and a FIFA Club World Cup at Manchester City, is another strong possibility. The Chicago Fire FC remain eager to bolster their squad after failing to secure Neymar and Kevin De Bruyne previously. With a designated player slot open, the club is in discussions to offer Silva a lucrative three-year deal, reportedly valued at £8.9 million per year.
Mohamed Salah, celebrated as one of the Premier League’s greatest since joining Liverpool in 2017 from Roma, has recently hinted at an uncertain future following a breakdown in his relationship with Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot. Should Salah opt to move to the United States, San Diego FC, supported by Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour, is well positioned to sign him. The club is expected to have an available Designated Player spot once they part ways with Hirving Lozano.
Robert Lewandowski, esteemed among the finest strikers of his generation, led FC Barcelona’s LaLiga-winning campaign in the 2024–25 season with 42 goals in 52 appearances. Despite this, manager Hansi Flick favors Ferran Torres as his starting striker, limiting Lewandowski’s league starts to eleven this season. As Barcelona plans to bring in new talent such as Julian Alvarez or Harry Kane after Lewandowski’s contract concludes, the Polish forward faces substantial pressure to move. The Chicago Fire hold his MLS discovery rights and have been urging him to join their ranks.
Casemiro is nearing the end of his contract at Manchester United, with his departure expected in the summer of 2026. While the Saudi Pro League offers a high-paying final contract, former clubs FC Porto and Sao Paulo also aim to bring him back on a free transfer. Meanwhile, the United States has emerged as an attractive alternative, with the Brazilian midfielder reportedly drawn to the lifestyle surrounding MLS, having recently vacationed in Miami.
Antoine Griezmann, with a rich career across Real Sociedad, FC Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid totaling 204 goals in 552 LaLiga matches, has openly expressed his admiration for American culture and ambition to compete in MLS before retiring. Orlando City, who hold Griezmann’s MLS discovery rights, are strongly positioned to secure his signing. Their general manager and sporting director, Ricardo Moreira, has traveled to Spain to negotiate terms on the club’s behalf.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Futures of Select Stars
Griezmann is widely expected to depart Atletico Madrid during the 2026 summer transfer window, although official confirmation remains pending. Similarly, Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool is uncertain, with speculation mounting over a potential move stateside.
Casemiro’s next destination remains open, with MLS, the Saudi Pro League, and a return to Brazil all possible options as he evaluates his next career step.
Anticipated Impact on MLS and Its Growth Trajectory
The arrival of these top players in 2026 would further elevate MLS’s profile on the global football stage, attracting broader viewership and increasing competition quality. Clubs like LA Galaxy, Chicago Fire, San Diego, and Orlando City are preparing to strengthen their squads significantly, which may lead to intensified rivalries and greater fan engagement. The league’s ability to attract such high-caliber talent underscores its growing appeal as a destination for established stars looking to extend their careers while embracing new challenges.
