Josh Sargent's Prime-Time MLS Switch Could Spark Toronto FC Renaissance and Boost USMNT Ambitions
Josh Sargent is set to experience MLS for the first time, joining America's premier soccer league while potentially boosting his prospects with the U.S. men's national team down the road.
The 26-year-old striker officially signed with Toronto FC from Norwich City on Friday, concluding a transfer situation that had seen him demoted to the Canaries' reserve squads. He now returns to North America in a deal worth up to $27 million with incentives included, establishing him as MLS's most costly incoming acquisition ever, eclipsing LAFC's Son Heung-min signing.
At Toronto, he'll have the opportunity to serve as a cornerstone player for a respected MLS franchise with championship pedigree. He joins a growing list of American players in their peak years who have chosen to compete in the domestic league, looking for career advancement.
the welcoming committee 👋 pic.twitter.com/c7BYwkbpZR
This movement has gained momentum recently, particularly in the past year, with Paxten Aaronson transferring to Colorado Rapids from Germany and Matt Turner rejoining New England Revolution following unsuccessful stints in England.
Through this transition, established national team members can potentially secure increased minutes, play nearer to family, and often earn better compensation—benefits that Sargent will enjoy in Toronto, even while remaining outside U.S. borders.
"Everyone has their own motivations," Sargent explained to Goal. "It's nobody else's decision ... I've been considering moving back closer to family since we're expanding our household. It's become increasingly appealing to me and my loved ones."
Although his time at Norwich was productive, tallying 71 goals and 24 assists across 240 appearances in all competitions, it was evident he required a fresh start.
Considering these factors and family considerations with young children, the decision to return to North America makes sense, particularly with an opportunity to become a focal point for a team where strong performances could create USMNT possibilities or even facilitate a European return.
"Getting to know MLS, doing so with Toronto, is genuinely thrilling," he continued. "Competing before different supporters at a different venue will be fantastic. Beyond soccer, having my family close, enabling friends to visit easily, spending more time with relatives, plus living in a major metropolitan area and enjoying that experience."
For Toronto, his arrival represents another move in their campaign to restore the organization to its successful era, which featured three MLS Cup final berths from 2016 to 2019 and a championship in 2017.
He becomes the focal element of a revamped core structure, with his goal-scoring capability likely depending on the creative playmaking skills of another USMNT veteran who returned to MLS following a brief European adventure, midfielder Djordje Mihailovic.
If these two players develop chemistry together, both the team's and their individual prospects could transform significantly.
Sargent's USMNT Future
Sargent's USMNT Future
Securing the ideal situation for his family and club performance was Sargent's main concern, though his USMNT future remains uncertain.
His most recent USMNT appearance came in September 2025, but he hasn't found the net in 17 consecutive matches for the national team since scoring twice in a Concacaf Nations League victory over Cuba in November 2017. His remaining USMNT goals during his 29 international appearances occurred in 2018 exhibitions against Bolivia and Peru, plus another Nations League encounter with Cuba.
Due to these scoring difficulties and limited club minutes, he's almost guaranteed to miss manager Mauricio Pochettino's roster for March exhibitions versus Belgium and Portugal. Nevertheless, an outstanding MLS debut could put him back in national team consideration by late 2026—potentially in autumn international windows following the 2026 World Cup.
Currently, he ranks approximately sixth in the striker hierarchy behind Folarin Balogun, Haji Wright, Patrick Agyemang, Ricardo Pepi and another MLS forward, Brian White.
During his adaptation period, the objective remains clear—achieve personal stability, help Toronto FC reach the MLS Cup playoffs for the first time since 2020, and score consistently enough to earn national team consideration again.