10 most expensive MLS transfers of all time

"MLS teams lure international stars with record transfer fees. See the top 10 most expensive transfers in league history now!"

Over the past half-decade, Major League Soccer (MLS) teams have been luring international players to the United States with unprecedented transfer fees, setting new records in the process. While the top five European leagues still dominate the global transfer market, the MLS is steadily closing the gap and making a name for itself as a destination for top talent. What was once unheard of for most MLS clubs a mere ten years ago is now becoming the norm, with record signings and big names choosing to ply their trade in the United States and Canada.

Let's take a closer look at the ten most expensive transfers in MLS history.

Columbus Crew made a splash in 2022 by signing Cucho Hernandez from Watford at the age of 23. The Colombian striker was brought in to fill the void left by Gyasi Zardes and played a pivotal role in the Crew's 2023 MLS Cup triumph, scoring crucial goals throughout the playoffs.

LAFC's Brian Rodriguez showed immense promise when he joined the club in 2019, helping them secure the MLS Supporters' Shield in his debut season. However, his stint in Los Angeles was short-lived as he moved to Club America in Liga MX after just three years.

Inter Miami made a significant investment in Rodolfo Pizarro in 2020, hoping the Mexican midfielder would make an immediate impact. While Pizarro's time in the MLS was inconsistent, he left for AEK Athens in 2023.

Chucky Lozano became the face of San Diego FC in a record-setting $12 million transfer from PSV Eindhoven. The winger's move to the MLS marks a new chapter in his career.

Chicago Fire broke their club record with the $12 million signing of Hugo Cuypers before the 2024 season. Cuypers has already made an impact with six goals in 18 matches.

Luiz Araujo joined Atlanta United for $12.3 million in 2021 after winning Ligue 1 with Lille. Despite his success in France, Araujo struggled to replicate his form in the MLS and eventually left for Flamengo.

FC Cincinnati secured Brenner's services in 2021 for approximately $12.6 million, helping the struggling club climb the Eastern Conference standings. Brenner's time in the MLS was short-lived, but he still managed to score 27 goals before departing for Udinese.

Ezequiel Barco arrived at Atlanta United as a promising 18-year-old after helping Independiente win the Copa Sudamericana. While Barco did not live up to his hefty price tag, he did win the MLS Cup with the Five Stripes.

Pity Martinez made a record $15.5 million move to the MLS in 2018 after winning the South American Footballer award at River Plate. Despite his success in South America, Martinez's time in the MLS was short-lived as he left for Al-Nassr before returning to River Plate.

Thiago Almada set a new MLS transfer record when he joined Atlanta United from Club Atletico Velez Sarsfield for approximately $16 million in 2022. The midfielder has been a key player for the Five Stripes, contributing 24 goals in 81 appearances.

These transfers highlight the growing allure of the MLS as a destination for top talent, with clubs willing to break records to secure the services of international stars. As the league continues to evolve and attract global attention, we can expect to see more high-profile signings in the years to come.

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