MLS Commissioner Desperately Courts Mohamed Salah Following Messi's Stunning Success
MLS Commissioner Don Garber has suggested that Mohamed Salah should consult with Lionel Messi and Thomas Müller for firsthand testimonials about competing in North America.
Salah's career trajectory has unexpectedly become a worldwide discussion point. A highly publicized dispute with Liverpool boss Arne Slot reached its peak when the benched forward suggested that Saturday's match against Brighton & Hove Albion might be his last game at Anfield.
The Saudi Pro League has naturally emerged as Salah's most probable next stop, though rumors of an MLS transfer have also surfaced. Garber identified the ideal ambassadors to provide glowing testimonials about his competition.
"Clearly, if [Salah] chooses to join Major League Soccer, we would receive him enthusiastically," Garber told media representatives this week. "I would recommend he contact Leo [Messi] and connect with Thomas Müller to learn about their satisfaction, achievements, and how thoroughly they've embraced Major League Soccer."
Messi is so content with his lifestyle both on and off the field at Inter Miami that he secured three additional years in Florida through a recent contract renewal.
Müller holds an agreement with Vancouver Whitecaps through December 2026 and has expressed genuine fondness for his new Canadian residence. The same applies to LAFC's standout striker Son Heung-min, though the possibility of adding another global superstar to the league's celebrity lineup is something Garber approaches cautiously.
Which MLS Clubs Could Mohamed Salah Join?
Despite his enthusiasm regarding the Salah speculation, Garber cautioned that no MLS franchise would actively attempt to disrupt his Liverpool tenure. "I've noticed some speculation about Mo Salah," he reflected. "We strongly respect contractual obligations; that's fundamental to American business practices. Mo is contracted to Liverpool, people we're familiar with. They're an excellent organization."
Currently, it seems Liverpool remains determined to retain their third-highest goalscorer in club history. Nevertheless, Salah could potentially force a departure if this conflict with Slot continues.
The dominant belief suggests a January transfer for Salah to MLS is improbable. The financial commitment needed to facilitate such a move would challenge most teams given the stringent economic restrictions of America's premier division.
Inter Miami have perfected navigating those regulations recently, yet the Herons seem focused on strengthening other positions. San Diego FC are described as the "frontrunner" to acquire Salah by The Athletic, which appears largely based on their owner being British-Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour.
Notably, Chicago Fire have also emerged as another potential suitor. The organization led by former U.S. men's national team manager Gregg Berhalter have previously pursued marquee signings, with players like Kevin De Bruyne and Neymar Jr. being targets of earlier pursuits.
With a squad where Jonathan Bamba and Hugo Cuypers occupy two of the three Designated Player positions, there would certainly be space for Salah as well.