From Munich to the U.S.? MLS club is after Leon Goretzka | OneFootball

Leon Goretzka will leave FC Bayern this summer. For a long time, a move to Italy’s Serie A was considered the most likely option for the midfielder. According to recent reports, the 31-year-old could also be headed to the U.S.

In recent months, the midfielder has repeatedly been linked with clubs in Italy, England, and Saudi Arabia. AC Milan, in particular, was long considered a promising candidate. However, due to personnel changes in the Rossoneri’s sporting leadership, the topic has recently lost significant momentum.

Now a new suitor has entered the picture.

Chicago Fire joins the fray

As reported by The Athletic, MLS club Chicago Fire is making a push to sign the German international. Club officials are reportedly closely monitoring the Bayern star’s situation and are currently evaluating the financial terms of a potential transfer.

For Goretzka, a move to the U.S. would be an exciting step. Following Thomas Müller, who joined the Vancouver Whitecaps in the summer of 2025, another long-time Bayern pro could continue his career in North America.

However, it remains completely unclear whether the midfielder wants to take this path.

Goretzka himself has recently emphasized on several occasions that his focus is currently exclusively on the World Cup with the German national team. Only after the tournament does the midfielder intend to seriously consider his future and make a final decision.

This stance comes as no surprise. For the 31-year-old, the World Cup offers the opportunity to showcase himself once again on the biggest stage in world soccer and further strengthen his already strong negotiating position.

Competition from Lewandowski

Photo: IMAGO

What’s interesting here is Chicago Fire’s player recruitment strategy. The MLS club is currently not only pursuing Goretzka but also looking to sign Robert Lewandowski. The former Bayern striker is also on the Americans’ wish list following his departure from FC Barcelona.

Should Lewandowski actually move to Chicago, it could have a direct impact on a potential Goretzka transfer.

The reason is the MLS’s “Designated Player” rule. Each club is allowed to sign only three players whose salaries exceed the league’s regular salary cap. These special spots are extremely valuable and are usually reserved for top international stars.

If Chicago were to use one of these spots for Lewandowski, the financial leeway for signing Goretzka would be significantly reduced.

Regardless of the MLS, Goretzka is unlikely to have any trouble receiving attractive offers this summer.

The national team player is available on a free transfer, has extensive international experience, and, despite his age, continues to perform at a high level. The list of interested parties is correspondingly long.