Major League Soccer (MLS) is once again proving it has become a serious destination for Europe's biggest stars, with two blockbuster deals in the summer of 2026: Chicago Fire's signing of Polish marksman Robert Lewandowski, and French forward Antoine Griezmann's move toward Orlando City.
Lewandowski to Chicago Fire, officially
Chicago Fire have officially signed Polish international Robert Lewandowski, in a deal the club described as "a defining moment in Chicago sports." Lewandowski joins on a contract running through the 2027-28 season, having become a free agent after four seasons at Barcelona. Landing a striker of his historic calibre is a huge boost to the club's ambitions and to MLS as a whole. (Chicago Fire FC) (MLSSoccer)
Griezmann toward Orlando after the World Cup
In another eye-catching move, French star Antoine Griezmann is set to join Orlando City as a mid-summer MLS addition, once his 2026 World Cup involvement ends. The transfer closes a long chapter in Griezmann's European career and his close ties to Atlético Madrid, opening a new chapter across the Atlantic. (MLSSoccer) (Sports Illustrated)
Why MLS?
The two deals reflect an accelerating trend of Europe's biggest names heading to MLS in recent years, chasing a new challenge and a foothold in a promising sports market that is hosting the World Cup final this summer. With names the size of Lewandowski and Griezmann — alongside other stars before them — the league keeps raising its ambitions and its standing on the global football map.
Follow Malaab Al-An for all the latest from the summer 2026 transfer window.
