Five Blockbuster MLS Transfer Rumors Set to Explode When Summer Window Opens
The 2025 MLS secondary transfer window is approaching rapidly, though speculation about possible signings has been swirling for some time.
Although multiple teams have already secured player agreements, including New York City FC's confirmed acquisition of Nicolas Fernandez Mercau, no MLS franchises have been permitted to register new talent to their squads this summer. This situation will shift when the mid-season transfer period commences on Thursday, July 24, spanning four complete weeks until Thursday, August 21.
Below, Sports Illustrated examines five prospective transfers that have been generating buzz in recent reports.
Columbus Crew SC pursuing striker Wessam Abou Ali
Wessam Abou Ali emerged as a breakout performer during the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States and may be heading back to American soil as Columbus Crew's new forward. Though unconfirmed, multiple sources indicate that the Palestinian striker is nearing a move to the Crew while departing from Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, winners of 45 domestic titles.
Nevertheless, while Egyptian journalist Mohamed Shaddad reported that Al Ahly stood to collect $8 million from the deal, plus potential performance bonuses of $2 million and 20 percent of future transfer proceeds, MLS insider Tom Bogert indicates no final agreement has been reached.
Negotiations reportedly continue between the Crew, Al Ahly and Abou Ali, though Columbus is simultaneously exploring alternative candidates to occupy the vacant Designated Player position, which became available after Cucho Hérnandez's departure to La Liga side Real Betis.
The 26-year-old Abou Ali netted three goals during the Club World Cup and has earned six caps for the Palestinian national squad.
LAFC targeting Canadian international Mathieu Choinere
LAFC may already rank among Western Conference favorites, but they appear poised to acquire Canadian midfielder Mathieu Choinére from Grasshopper Zurich, strengthening their central options.
The Athletic indicates the 26-year-old will rejoin MLS this summer, following one campaign in Switzerland's premier league, where he featured in only 17 matches. Before his European stint, he excelled with CF Montréal, earning 2023 MLS All-Star recognition while recording 11 goals and three assists across 89 starting appearances.
Though Montréal has faltered since his exit, LAFC represents a logical MLS destination given the shared ownership between the California franchise and Grasshopper.
In Los Angeles, he aims to partner with Mark Delgado and secure regular playing time before Canada's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Inter Miami finalizing Rodrigo De Paul acquisition
Among recent transfer speculation, Rodrigo De Paul's potential move from Atletico Madrid to Inter Miami has generated the most attention. While awaiting official confirmation, numerous reports suggest De Paul will join the Herons on loan this summer before transitioning to designated player status over the subsequent four campaigns.
Miami holds a $17 million purchase option, which would activate a four-year permanent contract.
Though Miami preferred securing De Paul outright initially, MLS regulations required a loan arrangement as a TAM player—earning approximately $800,000 against the salary cap before converting to DP status next season.
Without this regulatory workaround, Miami would have needed to create DP space, likely by releasing one of Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba or Sergio Busquets from the roster. Instead, the club appears set to decline Busquets' DP renewal and transition De Paul into that role.
During Atlético Madrid's 2024-25 La Liga campaign, De Paul contributed three goals and five assists. He should provide greater offensive production in MLS, particularly alongside Busquets in midfield. The transfer appears virtually complete, with his Leagues Cup debut expected July 30.
Charlotte FC pursuing Cruz Azul's Giorgos Giakoumakis
Charlotte FC made headlines during the winter window by acquiring winger Wilfried Zaha from Galatasaray, but The Crown remains active in the market. Reports indicate the North Carolina club submitted an offer to Liga MX's Cruz Azul for former Atlanta United striker Giorgos Giakoumakis. However, the defending Concacaf Champions Cup holders rejected the MLS proposal.
Discussions persist between both parties as Charlotte seeks an immediate striker replacement for Patrick Agyemang, following the former MLS SuperDraft selection and current USMNT player's transfer to Derby County in England's Championship.
The 30-year-old Giakoumakis recorded nine goals and seven assists in 1,628 minutes for Cruz Azul last season, having previously tallied 22 goals and two assists in 38 MLS appearances with Atlanta during 2023 and 2024.
Real Salt Lake approaching Victor Olatunji agreement
Real Salt Lake has sought additional attacking support for Diego Luna this season, and they may find it through forward Victor Olatunji. Tom Bogert indicates the Utah franchise is close to finalizing a deal for the Sparta Prague striker, valued around $2.5 million without requiring designated player status.
The 25-year-old Olatunji has impressed with Sparta Prague, netting 12 goals and adding two assists in 1,966 minutes across all competitions last season, bringing his Sparta tally to 20 goals in 91 total appearances.
Should RSL complete this acquisition, they would retain flexibility to strengthen other roster areas while continuing their quest to build a championship-caliber squad in MLS.