Over the last few years, a host of Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs have been successful in signing superstars, such as Lionel Messi, Thomas Muller, and Son Heung-min. Now, another MLS club is close to adding a top player to their ranks in the future.
MLS Club in Talks To Snap Up Ex-Real Madrid Star
According to journalists Tom Bogert and Pipe Sierra, Minnesota United are in talks to sign former Real Madrid man James Rodriguez. They are keen to offer the Colombian, now available as a free agent, a short-term deal in the coming days.
Rodriguez, who will allegedly not be a Designated Player at Minnesota United, has been on the lookout for a new team since being released by Mexican side Club Leon in December. He was previously linked to Austin FC and Orlando City.
The former Bayern Munich and Porto attacking midfielder has not played a competitive match since November last year. Should he secure a move to Minnesota United, he would be able to get regular minutes under his belt before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A left-footed technical dribbler blessed with passing and shooting, Rodriguez produced 5 goals and 9 assists in 34 total games for Leon. On the other hand, he has registered 31 goals and 41 assists across 122 games for Colombia so far.
Minnesota United, valued at $610 million by Forbes, would likely receive a big boost should they manage to sign the former Real Madrid man. They hope to improve on their MLS Cup playoffs quarter-final finish last year in the upcoming campaign.
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Meanwhile, Seattle Sounders General Manager Craig Waibel has showered praise on La Liga side Atletico Madrid, who recently signed Obed Vargas from the MLS outfit.
“Compliments to Atletico Madrid, who at no point flinched on their interest in the player and their belief that he can keep developing with their guidance. There was no tricky business… there was no one trying to fool each other. It was respectful and it was awesome. They are a great group there,” Waibel said in a recent interaction.
Vargas, who reportedly joined Atletico Madrid for over $5 million earlier this week, featured in 130 outings across all competitions for the Sounders. The 20-year-old Mexican midfielder also scored eight goals and laid out 10 assists for the MLS club.
