MLS transfer tracker: The biggest signings shaking up the league

By Rylee McKinney (@rylees_roster)

MLS Matchball (Photo courtesy of TopBin90 Team)

Riding the momentum of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Major League Soccer clubs have wasted little time reshaping their squads with high-profile international signings. From European legends and World Cup veterans to emerging talents looking for a fresh challenge, teams across the league are making bold moves ahead of the next phase of the season.

Here is a look at some of the biggest recent MLS signings.

Robert Lewandowski – Chicago Fire

Chicago Fire pulled off one of the biggest signings in league history by bringing in Robert Lewandowski. The legendary striker, who has scored more than 700 career goals for club and country, signed a Designated Player contract through the 2027-28 MLS season while occupying both a DP slot and an international roster spot.

Antoine Griezmann – Orlando City SC

Antoine Griezmann has already made an immediate impact for Orlando City after scoring on his MLS debut against the San Jose Earthquakes. The French star joined following the World Cup break and is under contract through the 2027-28 season, with a club option for 2028-29 as a Designated Player.

Andre Luiz - Sporting KC

Most recently, reports have emerged that Sporting KC has signed Brazilian winger Andre Luiz for a record-breaking $22 million. With this signing, Luiz will become the third most expensive player in MLS history. Luiz will transfer from Greek club Olympiacos, with prior experience at Serie A's Flamengo and Primeira Liga's Estrela da Amadora.

Jack Harrison – New England Revolution

The New England Revolution officially unveiled their signing of Jack Harrison on July 25 after acquiring the experienced winger from Leeds United. Harrison signed a Designated Player deal through the 2029-30 MLS season. He brings 54 goals and 50 assists from across more than 375 professional appearances in England, Italy and MLS.

Casemiro – Inter Miami CF

Inter Miami continued its trend of attracting global stars by signing Casemiro, a five-time UEFA Champions League winner, as a free agent. The Brazilian midfielder is under contract through the conclusion of the 2027 MLS Sprint Season, with an option to extend his stay until June 2029.

Kyogo Furuhashi – LA Galaxy

LA Galaxy strengthened their attack with the addition of Japanese forward Kyogo Furuhashi from Birmingham City. Signed through the 2030-31 season, Furuhashi will occupy an international roster slot after previously scoring 85 goals and adding 19 assists in 165 appearances for Celtic, where he won eight domestic trophies.

Elias Saad – Nashville SC

Nashville SC announced the arrival of Elias Saad on July 16, acquiring the attacker on loan from Bundesliga side FC Augsburg through the 2027 MLS Spring Season. The 26-year-old has already gained valuable experience in Germany, recording three goals and two assists in the Bundesliga while also producing nine goals and six assists across 50 Bundesliga 2 matches.

Paulo Diaz – Atlanta United

Atlanta United added experience to its back line by signing Chilean defender Paulo Diaz through the 2027-28 season, with options extending through 2029-30. Arriving on a free transfer from River Plate, Diaz brings 364 professional appearances, 27 goals, 11 assists, and eight career trophies to Atlanta.

Junior Alonso – Atlanta United

Atlanta doubled down defensively by signing Paraguayan international Junior Alonso through the 2028-29 season. Fresh off helping Paraguay reach the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Alonso joins on a free transfer after two seasons with Atletico Mineiro and has made 422 professional appearances during his career.

Allan Saint-Maximin – Charlotte FC

Charlotte FC signed on winger Allan Saint-Maximin to a three-year Designated Player contract through the 2028-29 season. The French winger arrives after helping RC Lens capture its first-ever Coupe de France title, contributing four goals and three assists in just 13 appearances. He has yet to make an appearance with Charlotte due to visa issues.

Vincent Janssen – Portland Timbers

The Portland Timbers are reportedly finalizing a deal for veteran striker Vincent Janssen after the Dutch forward departed Royal Antwerp as a free agent. The former Tottenham Hotspur and Monterrey attacker brings proven experience at the highest levels. Additional contract details are expected soon.

Youssef Maziz – Colorado Rapids

The Colorado Rapids are closing in on a deal for creative midfielder Youssef Maziz, who recently became a free agent after leaving OH Leuven. Expected to join as a Targeted Allocation Money signing, Maziz is viewed as a chance creator who could pair effectively alongside Paxten Aaronson once the move is finalized.

Summary

As the MLS transfer window continues, clubs are making it clear they are willing to invest in proven international talent to strengthen their squads.

Whether it is legendary names like Robert Lewandowski and Casemiro or rising contributors such as Elias Saad and Youssef Maziz, these additions could significantly shape the remainder of the season.

With more deals still expected, the league's roster shake-up is far from over.