How Ronaldo, Modric and Neymar missed MLS moves

Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric and Neymar were among several high-profile footballers who came close to joining Major League Soccer, but ultimately saw proposed moves to the United States fall through.

According to a report by the Economic Times, MLS clubs explored deals for some of the biggest names in world football at different stages of their careers, although financial demands, contract decisions and personal preferences prevented the transfers from happening.

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Ronaldo was one of the biggest stars to attract MLS interest in 2022 as he approached the end of his second spell at Manchester United.

The Portugal captain, then 37, was considering his next move after leaving Juventus and was linked with clubs in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere.

MLS sides, including LA Galaxy, Inter Miami and Sporting Kansas City, were reportedly interested in signing him. Sporting Kansas City had Ronaldo on their discovery list, giving them priority to negotiate with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.

The club reportedly held several meetings with Ronaldo’s representatives over a month, with discussions progressing far enough for a move to appear possible.

However, financing the deal proved difficult, while convincing Ronaldo to move to MLS was another obstacle.

Ronaldo eventually chose Saudi Arabia, joining Al-Nassr after becoming unhappy during his second spell at Manchester United.

Modric was another former Real Madrid star who attracted attention from MLS.

As the Croatia midfielder approached the end of his contract with Real Madrid in 2024, San Diego FC and Inter Miami were reportedly interested in securing his services.

Modric instead extended his Madrid contract for another season, spending his final campaign at the club as captain before leaving for AC Milan in July 2025.

San Diego FC also explored potential moves for former Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos and goalkeeper Keylor Navas, but neither transfer was completed.

Neymar was another superstar who could have added significant glamour to MLS.

Inter Miami had reportedly considered bringing Neymar to the United States in an attempt to reunite the former Barcelona attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and Neymar.

The three forwards enjoyed a hugely successful spell together at Barcelona, but the proposed reunion was never realised.

Neymar instead agreed to extend his contract with Brazilian club Santos for another year in January 2026.

With that agreement due to expire in December, Neymar is expected to retire from professional football, ending hopes of joining Messi and Suárez in MLS.

Although the moves involving Ronaldo, Modric, Ramos, Navas and Neymar did not materialise, the reported interest demonstrated the growing appeal of MLS to established global stars seeking new challenges late in their careers.