Top five players who can join MLS in summer 2024

Published at :May 13, 2024 at 4:22 PM

Modified at :May 13, 2024 at 4:22 PM

(Courtesy : DFL/Bundesliga)

Messi, Suarez, Busquets are among the big names in Major League Soccer currently

Lionel Messi might just have created a sparking attraction for football to shine in America. While his playing time might be cut short sometime in future, his presence promises to draw unprecedented attention to the league. Similar to what his ‘GOAT’ counterpart, Cristiano Ronaldo has done with football in Saudi.

With a shift towards younger talents, MLS still welcomes players of Messi’s stature, who can elevate its global profile. Here are five potential candidates to follow Messi’s lead, highlighting that no player is off-limits for the league’s expansion efforts.

5. Thomas Muller

It might seem like Thomas Muller has been with Bayern Munich forever, but he’s only 34 years old. He still matches the profile of MLS teams who are in the market to recruit such players. Despite such rumours of him leaving to American pastures, he prefers to stay in Munich.

However, with only one goal in 17 Bundesliga appearances this year, Muller’s fading impact could signal his departure from the club where he began his first team football as an 18-year-old teenager.

4. Sergio Ramos

Legendary Spanish defender Sergio Ramos is now a free agent and could soon join MLS, despite past rumours suggesting otherwise. The pressing question revolves around his destination and how much clubs will offer him. Further raising eyebrows as to whether he’d necessitate a DP (Designated Player) spot and if it’s justifiable in today’s MLS landscape.

At 38, Ramos has showcased his longevity with 33 appearances for Sevilla this season. Teams seeking defensive stability and leadership could greatly benefit from his experience.

3. Angel Di Maria

Angel Di Maria might join MLS in the summer of 2024 as per reports from ESPN Argentina. With his contract at Benfica ending in June, the 36-year-old winger would bring in tonnes of experience and a bag full of trickery if he joins fellow Argentine star Lionel Messi. His friendship with Messi and their connection from their time at Paris Saint Germain add weight to the reports.

2. Nacho

Nacho has been a trusted centre-back for Real Madrid. The seasoned campaigner has confirmed his exit from his childhood team this summer. With 358 senior appearances over 13 years (plus his time at youth levels), his departure will mark the end of an era. At least that is what Madridistas all-round will tout it as.

Similar to Ramos, Nacho brings both strength and surety at the back. He undoubtedly offers value on the field, but the question remains: at what cost? Like Ramos, he’s been linked with a move to the States. Being 4 years younger than his former Madrid teammate, it remains to be seen which team will open doors for Nacho.

1. Marco Reus

Marco Reus has decided to close the Borussia Dortmund chapter at the end of this season. What has been a loyal ride for the player is coming to an end and the footballing world is on its feet to give him the guard of honour he deserves. While this might be the end of a chapter, reports suggest that he is willing to start another as he is eyeing offers from MLS clubs after the Champions League finals.

Inter Miami and Los Angeles are potential destinations, with Reus offering experience for free. Unlike Bastian Schweinsteiger, he might opt for a club with title aspirations.

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