CHICAGO — Major League Soccer is poised to welcome one of the most prolific strikers in football history, as Robert Lewandowski has reached a verbal agreement to join the Chicago Fire. The 37-year-old Polish icon is expected to sign a two-year contract early next week, marking the end of his illustrious career in European football.
Lewandowski, who concludes his tenure at FC Barcelona this summer as a free agent, reportedly chose the MLS side despite significant interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League and various European leagues. The move follows a visit to Chicago earlier this month, where the striker and his representatives met with club officials to discuss the project and inspect the team’s facilities. Chicago Fire head coach Gregg Berhalter confirmed the discussions, emphasizing the club's ambition to bolster their attacking options and compete for the MLS championship.
Read Also: Robert Lewandowski Has Not Agreed Terms with Al Hilal Despite Saudi Speculation
Free Agent Move: 2-Year Deal with Chicago Fire
• Transfer: Lewandowski verbal agreement, 2-year MLS contract
• Status: 37yo leaves Barcelona as free agent. Rejected Saudi/Europe
• Quote: Berhalter - "Great star in America. Chicago is opportunity"
• Next: Potential Messi vs Lewandowski July 22, Inter Miami
"He has every opportunity to become a great star in America," Berhalter said regarding the signing. "This country is ready for him. We want to show him that Chicago is a very good opportunity."
Lewandowski leaves Europe after an extraordinary two-decade career, during which he established himself as a dominant force at Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, and FC Barcelona. His trophy cabinet includes numerous league titles, domestic cups, and UEFA Champions League success, alongside a reputation as one of the most efficient goalscorers of his generation.
The addition of Lewandowski is viewed as a major coup for Major League Soccer, continuing the trend of world-class icons choosing North America for the next chapter of their careers. With the deal expected to be finalized within days, fans are already looking ahead to a potential high-profile matchup against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami on July 22.
