MLS
Here are the free transfers who could still make the move to MLS
Several elite players are still without a team and MLS may yet emerge as a potential destination.
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.
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.
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.
Eden Hazard
The Belgian arrived at Real Madrid as Premier League Player of the Season and with the expectation of wearing the legendary number 7 on his back. However, as a result of constant injuries and tactical decisions, the forward was never able to get back to full fitness and the version if the player everyone saw at Chelsea did not return. Now a free agent, MLS could be a great option for Hazard to once again demonstrate the level of football that gave him such a reputation. At just 32-years-old, the player could well continue to contribute heavily in the league.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
At just 29 years old, the English midfielder, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, finds himself without a team and after having racked up plenty of experience in the Premier League, he could contribute a lot to soccer in the United States.