Top five players who could join MLS in 2024

MLS has always attracted superstars of modern football and these players might have potential suitors in the league.

Major League Soccer (MLS) has become an attractive destination for football stars looking to make their mark in the United States. In recent years, fans have witnessed some high-profile transfers, including the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, David Villa, and Wayne Rooney, gracing the MLS pitches.

As the league continues to grow in stature and popularity, fans can't help but wonder about the potential arrivals of more international football icons. In this article, we will delve into the possibility of the top five players who might join MLS in 2024.

5. Olivier Giroud

Olivier Giroud, the former Chelsea and current AC Milan striker, has thrown his hat into the ring, expressing his willingness to consider a move to Major League Soccer in the near future. Giroud has managed seven goals in all competitions for AC Milan this season and is a crucial figure in Stefano Pioli's side.

Giroud's openness to an MLS move suggests that the league continues to attract top talent from European clubs. If Giroud makes the move, he could join a growing list of European stars who have found success and enjoyment in the MLS.

4. Antoine Griezmann

Antoine Griezmann, the Atletico Madrid and France forward, has expressed his desire to play in Major League Soccer before concluding his career. The 27-year-old Frenchman is one of the football world's finest talents, having enjoyed immense success at both club and international level.

Griezmann joined Atletico in 2014 and quickly became one of the best forwards globally, with an impressive track record of goals and titles. His notable brace in the 2018 Europa League final against Marseille secured his place in Atletico's history books.

While Griezmann signed a new contract with Atletico, his ambition to play in MLS remains a topic of discussion. His experience and skillset would undoubtedly make him an exciting addition to the league, further enhancing the global appeal of MLS.

3. Luka Modric

Luka Modric, the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner, is another player whose potential move to MLS is generating considerable interest. While Luis Suarez may be the most talked-about candidate for a Miami switch, Modric is right behind him in the speculation game.

Reports of the Croatian midfield maestro joining Lionel Messi at Inter Miami have been widespread. However, Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid, where Modric currently plays, has stated that there is no plan to let Modric leave in January. The ever-evolving world of football transfers often holds surprises, so the possibility of Modric making a move can't be ruled out.

The intriguing question here is not about Miami signing Modric, but what the consequences might be. The team already has an aging midfield star in Sergio Busquets. Can they afford to add another experienced player to their roster in a league like MLS, which traditionally favours younger legs? If the move happens, it will certainly be a significant addition to the league and a testament to MLS's growing appeal among top-tier players.

2. Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski is another world-renowned striker who could potentially make his mark in the MLS in 2024. The Polish striker has enjoyed an illustrious career, primarily with Bayern Munich, where he established himself as one of the most lethal forwards in the world. In the summer of 2022, Lewandowski made a move to Barcelona and has continued to impress.

Recent reports have indicated that many MLS teams are eyeing Lewandowski as a potential designated striker. With his proven track record and consistent performance, he is undoubtedly an attractive prospect for any team in need of a goal machine.

If the move materializes, Lewandowski would undoubtedly become one of the top-paid players in the league. Given that his contract with Barcelona runs until June 2026, any team interested in acquiring him would need to make a substantial offer. The timing could be right for Lewandowski to embark on a new adventure in the MLS, as his name has been circulating in MLS transfer rumours for some time.

1. Luis Suarez

Luis Suarez is a name that every football fan recognizes. The prolific Uruguayan striker has had a glittering career at top clubs such as Ajax, Liverpool, Barcelona, and recently, Gremio. However, recent reports suggest that Suarez's journey may take a surprising turn in 2024.

Suarez's potential move to MLS has been a hot topic of discussion, with the rumors gaining momentum. It's not just any MLS club that might secure his services but none other than Inter Miami, the club where his close friend and former teammate Lionel Messi currently plays in. The strong friendship between Suarez and Messi, which developed during their days at Barcelona, is no secret. Their families are close, and their partnership on the pitch was nothing short of magical.

When Barcelona unceremoniously parted ways with Suarez, it marked the beginning of the end of Messi's iconic era at the club. The prospect of the two friends reuniting in Miami is a tantalizing one for fans. Suarez's departure from Gremio was accompanied by improved fitness, perhaps suggesting that a switch to Miami is indeed on the horizon.

The key question remains: Will Suarez make a similar financial sacrifice to join Messi in Miami? Time will tell, but the potential reunion of this Barcelona dynamic duo in MLS is something that has fans buzzing with anticipation.