Philadelphia Union Lands MLS's All-Time Leading Goalscorer in Blockbuster Signing

A highly prolific goal scorer from the 2025 MLS campaign is poised to rejoin the league just under two months following his departure.

American forward Milan Iloski made an impressive beginning to the current season, netting 10 goals across merely 472 minutes of play for newcomers San Diego FC. Nevertheless, following his recent return to Denmark's FC Nordsjælland after completing his MLS loan stint, he is reportedly heading back to the league with Philadelphia Union, as reported by Tom Bogert.

The 26-year-old forward found the back of the net frequently during an exceptional five-game run in June, which featured the quickest four-goal performance in MLS history, accomplishing this remarkable achievement within just 12 minutes of action during a 5–3 victory against Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

Even though San Diego lacked a definitive striker option, they couldn't secure an agreement with Iloski and Nordsjælland, leading to the forward's return to Europe following one of the briefest yet most impactful tenures by any MLS player.

As San Diego continues searching for their optimal attacking solution between star wingers Hirving "Chucky" Lozano and Anders Dreyer, Philadelphia appears ready to incorporate Iloski into an already impressive offensive unit.

Upon joining Philadelphia, Iloski would likely slot in as a probable starter alongside Israeli international Tai Baribo, who has tallied 15 goals across 21 appearances this season. His arrival would also likely represent the club's planning beyond Mikael Uhre, who has found the net four times in 20 matches during 2025.

Securing Iloski would also serve as a definitive declaration of title ambitions for Philadelphia this season, as they continue strengthening their squad with aspirations for a deep 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs campaign.

Presently, Philadelphia leads both the MLS Eastern Conference and Supporters' Shield tables, enjoying consistent success since spring during their inaugural season under manager Bradley Carnell. Beyond MLS competition, they remain active in U.S. Open Cup contention, with a postponed quarterfinal matchup against New York Red Bulls scheduled for Aug. 13.

Prior to the Iloski connection, the club allegedly declined an overture from FC Bayern Munich icon Thomas Müller, citing excessive financial requirements that conflicted with organizational principles. However, this won't present complications with Iloski, and he aims to contribute his scoring ability to the Eastern Conference this summer.

Philadelphia faces Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt in an exhibition match on Saturday, before resuming MLS competition on Aug. 9 versus Toronto FC.