MLS
Chucky Lozano transfer update: San Diego FC close in on deal
The Mexican forward could soon leave PSV Eindhoven and make a shock move to the 2025 MLS expansion team.
San Diego FC are close to agreeing a sensational deal to bring Mexican international Hirving ‘Chucky’ Lozano to MLS, a major coup for the 2025 expansion team.
The Athletic reports that San Diego have agreed a fee of $12 million for Lozano and will look to build their team around him as they prepare for their first season in MLS. Lozano has made 70 appearances for the Mexican national team since making his debut in 2016 and would undoubtedly help bolster ticket sales in San Diego.
The 28-year-old left Italian champions Napoli last summer and re-joined former team PSV Eindhoven. But, while PSV have stormed to the Dutch league title, Lozano has been a bit-part player this year and is thought to be eager for another move.
Chucky Lozano says no to Chivas transfer
In recent months speculation regarding Lozano’s future has been rife. At this stage of his career the Mexican forward will expect to be a starter but had lost his place in the PSV team to Johan Bakayoko and USMNT star Malik Tillman.
Reports had emerged linking Lozano with a return to Liga MX, with a move to Chivas Guadalajara reportedly in the offing. Lozano is known to have been a Chivas fan in his youth but turned down the opportunity.
Lozano broke through with Pachuca and spent four years in the first team before making the move to Europe at the age of 22. He may well choose to return to Liga MX at some point in the future but appears to have opted for a move to the States.
But what will Lozano do for six months? Even if he takes a lengthy break after the culmination of the European season and this summer’s Copa America, San Diego will not have their first competitive fixture until the start of the 2025 season. Joining an expansion club is a unique challenge and Lozano will likely spend the time working alongside his new teammates as they prepare for life in MLS.
Speaking to AS USA last year, St. Louis City striker João Klauss revealed that time spent together ahead of their debut season in MLS had helped to forge tighter bonds between squad members. St. Louis, an expansion side in 2023, went on to enjoy a historic first season and clinch top spot in the Western Conference.