The Week in MLS Transfers: Jan 12-17 | OneFootball

We’re just under five weeks away from the 2026 MLS Season kickoff on February 21st. Here’s a summary of the most significant moves between January 12th and 17th (the last day of updates).

Houston Get Busy!

Houston Dynamo were busy beavers, making four signings this week. It’s a good thing too, as they cut 42% of their roster after the season. Center-back Lucas Halter’s move from Botofogo, and Augstín Bouzat from Vélez Sarsfield both address their urgent need for a stronger defense. They welcomed Héctor Herrera, a center midfielder, back into the Dynamo fold. The 35-year old Mexican international spent last season with Toluca before becoming a free agent.

Finally, Houston sacrificed their remaining DP slot and splashed some cash for Brazilian winger Guilherme. At 30 years-old, he’s no spring chicken, but in 46 games for Santos last season registered 14g/10a. Though none of these transfer press releases outlined deal terms, according to Transfermarkt Houston will spend over $4.4M cumulatively for the lot.

Well That Didn’t Take Long…

Defender David Schnegg was waived by D.C. United on Monday; then picked up off the wire by Charlotte FC on Wednesday. Charlotte has to be pinching themselves. Schnegg was one of the few bright elements in D.C. United’s dismal season. His Hooligan Defender Index was a solid 6.73, placing him 23rd among all defenders in the league for all around statistical excellence.

FC Cincinnati Get More Dangerous

FC Cincinnati added some pace onto their left flank with the signing of Bryan Ramírez from L.D.U. Quito. The Ecuadorian wing-back arrives with 10g/17a under his belt in 134 games in South America. The club did not confirm details, but Transfermarkt has this move pegged at a $3M fee.

Sporting Kansas City Boost Attack

SKC bolster their offense with Middlesbrough-born Calvin Harris. He had 5g/4a with Colorado last year before entering free agency. He was the second overall selection in the 2021 SuperDraft. As a green card holder he counts as a domestic player.

Another ex-Rapids Player Lands

Another Rapids castoff has found a home. 24 year-old midfielder Oliver Larraz, a homegrown prospect who was cut at the end of 2025, has signed with Vancouver Whitecaps. He had 3g/4a in 87 games with Colorado, and played significant minutes for their MLS NEXT Pro side as well.

Conscious Uncoupling

Chicago Fire and Kellyn Acosta announced a mutual contract termination on Wednesday. This will free up $1.6M in salary for Greg Berhalter’s side. Acosta, 30, has spent his entire professional career within MLS, and it will be interesting to see if anyone picks him up off the wire.

Philadelphia Union took some of the profit from Tai Baribo’s sale and invested in their back line. On Tuesday they announced the signing of Japhet Sery Larsen from SK Brann. The 25 year-old center-back has featured in UEFA competitions and is expected to be an immediate starter in place of Jakob Glesnes, who was traded to LA Galaxy. Larsen will occupy one of Philly’s international roster slots.

Hot Rumor

We broke this story late Saturday, but Inter Miami might be increasing its already potent attack with Monterrey striker Germán Berterame.

Hanging Up the Boots

Former USMNT defender, and two-time San Jose Earthquake Nick Lima announced his retirement from soccer on Friday. The 31 year-old hangs up his boots after playing collegiately for U.C. Berkeley, and professionally taking the pitch for Burlingame Dragons, Austin FC and New England Revolution. In his 255 games, he scored 10 goals and made 17 assists.