MLS Secondary Transfer Window Countdown: Time Running Out for Last-Minute Deals

Time is running out as the Secondary Transfer Window in MLS approaches its conclusion.

About a month has passed since the second transfer period of the 2025 MLS campaign began, providing teams with the chance to strengthen their rosters before the MLS Cup playoffs commence. The window has witnessed numerous significant transactions, highlighted by Son Heung-min's groundbreaking move to LAFC.

Rodrigo De Paul has also transferred from Atlético Madrid to Inter Miami and quickly established himself with the Herons. Thomas Müller, on the other hand, signed with the Vancouver Whitecaps as the Western Conference team seeks to compete for the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy.

Opportunities remain for additional player movements throughout the league, but teams must act before the Secondary Transfer Window concludes.

When Does the MLS Transfer Window Shut?

The Secondary Transfer Window concludes on Thursday, Aug. 21. Clubs now have fewer than 24 hours to complete any final transactions before Deadline Day expires.

The window remains active until 1 a.m. ET, meaning the cutoff extends into Friday, Aug. 22 for Eastern Conference teams.

Organizations operating on the West Coast must finalize their decisions by 10 p.m. PT on Thursday.

When Is the MLS Roster Freeze Date?

MLS rosters become locked on Friday, Sept. 12. This deadline arrives five weeks prior to Decision Day on Saturday, Oct. 18.

The positive aspect for MLS clubs is they can continue signing free agents between the Secondary Transfer Window closure and the Roster Freeze deadline. These players simply must be contracted with their new teams before rosters are finalized.

After Sept. 12, however, no roster modifications are permitted until the MLS Cup concludes, except under extraordinary circumstances.