Major League Soccer is set to welcome another global superstar, with Robert Lewandowski agreeing a move to Chicago Fire after the end of his glittering Barcelona career.
The legendary Poland international has reportedly chosen MLS over offers from Europe and Saudi Arabia, becoming the latest elite name to strengthen the league’s growing global appeal alongside Lionel Messi.
According to The Athletic, Lewandowski has agreed a two-year contract with Chicago Fire following his departure from Barcelona as a free agent.
The 37-year-old attracted interest from AC Milan and clubs in the Saudi Pro League, but has opted for a fresh challenge in the United States instead.
His arrival represents another landmark signing for MLS, which has continued to attract some of football’s biggest names in recent years.
After visiting Chicago earlier this month to tour the club’s facilities and discuss the long-term project, Lewandowski was convinced by the vision presented by the Fire hierarchy.
The former Barcelona striker is expected to become one of the league’s highest-paid players as he prepares to follow fellow Blaugrana legend Lionel Messi to North America.
Chicago Fire head coach and director of football Gregg Berhalter has made no secret of his ambition to recruit elite-level talent.
Speaking about the club’s pursuit of Lewandowski, Berhalter said:
“We’re trying to recruit world-class players. We think he’d be a great signing not only for the Chicago Fire, but for the league, to have a player of that caliber. We see him right up there with Messi in terms of ability, and it’d be great for the city of Chicago.”
Lewandowski leaves Europe with one of the most decorated careers of his generation, having added a third La Liga title during his four seasons at Barcelona after previously dominating German football with Bayern Munich.
His signing also arrives at an ideal time for Chicago Fire as the club prepares to move into the new McDonald’s Park stadium in the South Loop while strengthening its connection with Chicago’s large Polish community.
Chicago Fire’s ambitious recruitment drive may not end with Lewandowski.
According to The Athletic, the club hopes his arrival could help persuade former Bayern Munich teammate Leon Goretzka to join the MLS side.
The Germany international remains in discussions with Chicago, with club officials believing the prospect of reuniting with Lewandowski could prove decisive as he weighs competing offers from clubs across Europe.
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