MLS
LAFC negotiate with Carlos Vela to agree a new contract: full statement revealed
The MLS franchise and the Mexican forward are in discussions over a new deal for the winger.
The 2023 MLS season came to an end with Columbus Crew crowned champions, who got past LAFC in a dramatic game that went to wire and one that ended the Black & Gold’s hope of a second title.
The final whistle in the game signalled the end of the campaign, and the players flew away on vacation ahead of a quick turnaround which will see them back in preseason action in January 2024. For those working behind the scenes at the club, such holidays are a luxury, as work on the upcoming campaign is already well underway.
This Tuesday, the Black & Gold announced important decisions regarding its squad for next season, revealing the players who will renew their contracts with the franchise, as well as those who will not continue and the players with whom they are currently negotiating to seek an extension.
Will Vela stay at LAFC?
One of those players in the latter group is Carlos Vela, whose future is still up in the air. Much has been said about his potential departure from the MLS team, but, it has been revealed that talks are indeed underway to tie the forward down to a new deal with the club where he a certified legend.
A statement from the club read: “The Club is in talks to retain McCarthy, Maldonado, Gaines, Leone, and Rosales as well as free agents Carlos Vela, Diego Palacios, Kellyn Acosta, and Max Crépeau.” While no more details have been announced, it is hoped by all that Vela, who is second in the club appearance record and top of the all-time goal charts, can agree a new contract and continue to parade his talent all across MLS for another season at the top.
LAFC full statement:
The Los Angeles Football Club announced today’s roster moves for the 2024 MLS season.
LAFC currently has 18 players under contract for 2024 after exercising four-player options and declining nine options for next year.
The Black & Gold have exercised contract options on defender Jesús Murillo, midfielders Ilie Sánchez, and Erik Dueñas, and goalkeeper Abraham Romero.
The Club declined contract options on midfielders Christian Torres and Danny Crisostomo, defenders Julian Gaines, Tony Leone, Mohamed Traore, Denil Maldonado, Diego Rosales, and goalkeepers John McCarthy and Eldin Jakupovic.
Jakupovic, Maldonado, and Crisostomo will be eligible for the MLS Re-Entry Draft Process. McCarthy is eligible for free agency.
The Club is in talks to retain McCarthy, Maldonado, Gaines, Leone, and Rosales as well as free agents Carlos Vela, Diego Palacios, Kellyn Acosta, and Max Crépeau.