Ronaldo, Modric and Neymar’s MLS moves fell through
Several football superstars, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, and Neymar, were linked with transfers to Major League Soccer, but none of the deals materialised. MLS clubs showed strong interest in bringing these high-profile players to the United States. Despite negotiations and reported meetings, various factors prevented the moves. The pursuit of these stars highlights MLS’s ambition to attract global football icons.
Match highlights
- Cristiano Ronaldo was approached by several MLS clubs, including LA Galaxy, Inter Miami, and Sporting Kansas City, but ultimately chose to join Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
- Luka Modric received interest from San Diego FC and Inter Miami as his Real Madrid contract neared its end in 2024, but he extended his stay at Madrid before moving to AC Milan in July 2025.
- San Diego FC also targeted Sergio Ramos and Keylor Navas, but neither transfer happened.
- Neymar was linked with Inter Miami, with hopes of reuniting him with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, but he signed a one-year extension with Santos in January 2026.
- With his contract set to expire in December, Neymar is expected to retire, ending chances of an MLS reunion with his former Barcelona teammates.
