Liga MX turns to MLS to strengthen ahead of the Clausura 2024

A few seasons ago, MLS was turning heads as it set its sights on Mexican soccer to sign the top talent in the league. Liga MX players such as Cuauhtémoc Blanco, Alan Pulido and Raúl Ruidiaz all left over this period, giving the American game the upper hand on drawing in the elite players of the continent.

However, things seem to have taken an unexpected turn and the roles have been reversed: ahead of the Clausura 2024, it is now the Mexican clubs who are scoping out the best talent in the USA’s growing first division.

Chicharito set for Chivas switch

The most recent case seems to be the imminent return of Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez to Chivas de Guadalajara. After playing for LA Galaxy since 2020, the former Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen and Manchester United striker, looks set to return to the side that saw him emerge as a professional player.

But Chicharito is not the only MLS player that Liga MX clubs have in mind, as Brandon Vázquez, Rayados de Monterrey’s new signing from Supporters Shield champion FC Cincinnati, also stands out as a surprise deal that has come to fruition.

Another case that to add to the list of departing MLS talent is the USMYT international of Mexican descent, Cade Cowell, who is reportedly close to joining Chivas.

Which other players are linked with moves away from MLS?

In addition to the aforementioned trio, there are other talented MLS players who are wanted by Mexican teams for this Clausura 2024 campaign.

Among them is Denis Bouanga, who was of interest to Tigres. However, his high market value complicated a deal for the LAFC striker to the university squad.

Likewise, names such as Carlos Vela, Josef Martínez and Adalberto Carrasquilla have also been in the orbit of clubs such as Rayados de Monterrey, Cruz Azul and América, respectively. Money is the roadblock once again, however, as the high salaries have prevented negotiations so far.

This is how MLS has begun to attract the attention of Liga MX after the last edition of Leagues Cup, a tournament whose objective is precisely this, that both leagues look at their respective talents and manage to form squads combining the best players.