MLS star, son of Super Bowl champion, set for La Liga transfer

Less than a year after making his first senior start, Alex Freeman is set to leave MLS and head to the Spanish top flight.

The Athletic reports that La Liga side Villarreal have agreed a deal with Freeman’s Orlando City, offering up to $7 million. The 21-year-old left back’s current deal with Orlando runs to the end of 2026.

The deal will be structured as a $4 million initial fee, with another $3 million in potential add-ons based on performance. Orlando retain a sell-on clause for Freeman, ensuring that they get a cut of a future transfer fee.

Freeman had a breakthrough season with Orlando City in 2025, playing 29 MLS games and scoring six goals from left back. The 21-year-old has quickly established himself as a key part of Mauricio Pochettino’s USMNT squad and a move to Europe had been on the cards.

Over the offseason Orlando had reportedly made a series of offers to Freeman, presenting improved terms on a U-22 initiative deal. However Freeman was eager to move to Europe and Villarreal, currently fourth in LaLiga, offers a realistic opportunity of Champions League competition in next season.

Freeman is the son of former NFL wide receiver Antonio Freeman, best known for his seven-year spell with the Green Bay Packers. Freeman was a part of the Packers team that beat the New England Patriots at Super Bowl XXXI.

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