Several elite players are still without a team and MLS may yet emerge as a potential destination.
Bryan ArellanoBryxn_AJoe Brennanj4brennanUpdate: Aug 14th, 2023 04:03 EDT
GLYN KIRK / ERIC GAILLARD / RAFA APARICIO
This summer has seen both Major League Soccer and Saudi Arabia hog the spotlight around the world due to the signings made during the transfer window. Saudi football now has in their ranks the likes of Koulibaly, Mahrez, Mané, Kanté, Benzema and quite possibly Neymar, but Inter Miami came crashing through the door on behalf of the United States and brought in Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, all of whom have made an immediate impact on the pitch.
However, in the middle of August, there are still several top players who could make the move to American soccer as free agents: Messi deciding to join the league will surely attract the attention of those who want one last chance to share the pitch with him.
Full screen
Aug 11, 2023; Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA; Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts after scoring a goal in the second half against Charlotte FC at DRV PNK Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY SportsJeremy ReperUSA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
Who are the players could go go to MLS for free?
David De Gea
The Spanish goalkeeper ended his contract with Manchester United, the club he had called home since 2011. After the news broke of Thibaut Courtois’ season-ending ACL injury, the stopper was linked with a potential switch to Real Madrid, but now it seems that Los Blancos have their heart set on Kepa instead.
David De Gea has the freedom to negotiate with the club of his choice and having spent so many years in Europe, MLS is a destination that will surely attract the 32-year-old.
Friday night lights. 🔦📸 Devin L'Amoreaux pic.twitter.com/JFlLWkxMlX
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 12, 2023
Sergio Ramos
The 37-year-old defender parted ways with Paris Saint-Germain but he has not yet made the decision on where he wants to end his career, as age could already be an impediment. Rumours have recently circulated that link him to Club América in Mexico, a team that would be very keen on taking him on. However, this seems unlikely as MLS appears to tempt the former Real Madrid captain, who has heard good things about the US lifestyle from ex-Spain teammate, Sergio Busquets.
Alexis Sanchez
The Chilean forward has just finished his time playing for Marseille in Ligue 1 and no longer has a team. At the age of 34, he has become a clear candidate for a club in Major League Soccer. 18 goals and 3 assists in 44 games played with the French club shows clearly that his quality is still plentiful any time he steps out onto the pitch. The two-time Copa América champion with the Chilean national team has been playing in Europe for 12 years, so a huge change of scenery could indeed come at the right time.
Full screen
David De Gea is without a team after spending 12 years at Manchester United.PAUL ELLISAFP
