MLS Transfer Targets After FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Reyna, Fofana & More Linked

MLS Clubs Eye Club World Cup Stars as Transfer Window Opens

As the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 winds down, the message for Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs is clear: it’s time to think bigger.

The global tournament, often seen as a showcase for Europe and South America’s elite, has highlighted the kind of high-impact players who could immediately raise the floor — and ceiling — for ambitious MLS teams. The Secondary Transfer Window is now open, and with eyes on the expanded 2025 tournament, several standout players could be realistic, even transformational, signings.

Here are some top Club World Cup-linked transfer targets that MLS sporting directors should be dialing in on:

Center Forwards

José Manuel López – Palmeiras

• Age: 24
• Contract: Through 2027
• Style: Versatile No. 9 with playmaking ability
• Fit: Columbus Crew (rumored), other top MLS clubs
  Already linked to Columbus, “Flaco” is a forward in his prime who offers intelligent off-ball movement and versatility. He didn’t start regularly for Palmeiras during the CWC, suggesting he’s gettable – though not cheap.

David Datro Fofana – Chelsea FC

• Age: 21
• Contract: Through 2029
• Fit: Loan with option to buy
• Salary: Reportedly within max-TAM limits
  Multiple unproductive loans have stalled Fofana’s growth, but MLS could offer the one thing he needs most: stability. With a creative environment, he could thrive like Josef Martínez once did.

ALSO SEE: Premier League 2025 Summer Transfers: Full List of Deals, Departures & Signings

Wingers

Pepê – FC Porto

• Age: 28
• Contract: Not publicly disclosed
• Value: Would require record MLS fee
  Not a regular starter at Porto anymore, Pepê remains a dynamic attacker capable of playing anywhere in the front three. His signing would signal true ambition.

Raheem Sterling – Chelsea FC

• Age: 30
• Contract: Through 2027
• Wages: Comparable to Messi’s
  One of England’s most consistent wingers of the last decade, Sterling remains productive and creative – but his price tag will be steep. Still, he’s worth a call.

Carlos Martín – Atlético Madrid

• Age: 23
• League: LaLiga 2
• Risk Level: Medium-High
  A prolific scorer at youth and second-tier levels, Martín could be a budget-friendly upside signing, but needs the right system to thrive.

Attacking Midfielders

John Kennedy – Fluminense/Pachuca (Loan)

• Age: 23
• Role: Secondary striker or floating 10
  A goalscoring attacker who fits fluid systems. Could replicate Diego Rossi’s success if used correctly.

Santiago Rodríguez – Botafogo

• Age: 24
• Former Club: NYCFC
• Situation: Limited minutes, open to move
  Familiar with MLS and entering his prime, Santi’s return could be a slam dunk for clubs needing a creator with league experience.

Reinier – Real Madrid

• Age: 23
• Contract: Ends 2026
• Market Status: Reclamation project
  Still young with flashes of brilliance, Reinier needs the right environment to unlock his potential after years of bouncing between loans.

Gio Reyna – Borussia Dortmund

• Age: 22
• Status: Out of favor, injury prone
  Reyna may be the most intriguing target. A final-year contract and limited playing time could open the door for MLS to bring him home. NYCFC, his academy, would be a natural fit.

Veterans & Big Names to Consider

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 has once again shown the global gap MLS must close, but also the path forward. These players aren’t fantasy-level names—they’re possible. Some are affordable, some need the right context, and others are waiting for the right chance to revive their careers.

With increased roster flexibility, GAM/TAM structures, and Designated Player slots, the tools are in place. What MLS clubs do with them this summer could shape not just their seasons—but the league’s reputation.

ALSO SEE: Kenan Yildiz Barcelona Transfer: Club World Cup Star Back on Barça’s Radar in 2025