MLS commissioner Garber expresses interest in bringing Salah to the league.
MLS commissioner Don Garber expressed that he would “love” to see Liverpool icon Mohamed Salah in MLS, should the Egyptian forward choose to join the league.
Garber addressed reporters at the SBJ Business of Soccer event in Atlanta, and after sharing his admiration for Salah, remarked: “I couldn’t say that until he announced he was leaving Liverpool. But what an exceptional player he would be in MLS. And I believe we would offer him an excellent platform.”
This week, it was revealed that Salah and Liverpool will part ways at the conclusion of the current season, making him a free agent despite having a year remaining on his contract. There are already clubs eager to sign the 33-year-old, with sources indicating to ESPN that Saudi club Al Ittihad is prepared to continue its pursuit that has lasted for years.
MLS is poised to challenge the Saudi club, having already attracted talents such as Lionel Messi, Son Heung-Min, and Thomas MΓΌller in recent years. Just this week, Orlando City announced the signing of French World Cup champion Antoine Griezmann.
Garber initiated his appeal last December, stating: “Clearly, if [Salah] ever decides to come to Major League Soccer, we’d welcome him with open arms. I would suggest he reach out to Leo [Messi] and Thomas MΓΌller to learn how pleased they’ve been and how successful they’ve been and how much they’ve truly embraced being in Major League Soccer.”
ESPN sources confirmed that neither San Diego FC, whose principal owner is Egyptian businessman Sir Mohamed Mansour, nor the Chicago Fire, which has pursued high-profile players like Neymar in the past, are currently seeking Salah.
LAFC opted not to comment on the Egyptian international, although they seem constrained by their commitment to a two Designated Player/four U22 initiative roster model, which would hinder their pursuit of Salah. The team does have the option to modify its model to accommodate three DPs later this summer, however, when Salah would become available.
The MLS summer transfer window is open from July 13 to Sept. 2.
