How Ronaldo, Modric, Neymar missed MLS moves – Report

Several football stars, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, and Neymar, were linked with moves to Major League Soccer (MLS) at different points in their careers. In 2022, Ronaldo, nearing the end of his four-year contract at Juventus, was 37 years old and considering his next move. MLS clubs, such as LA Galaxy and Inter Miami, showed interest in signing the Portugal legend, with LA Galaxy and Inter Miami among those linked with Ronaldo.

Sporting Kansas City emerged as a serious contender as the club had the right to negotiate with Ronaldo, which led to a series of meetings between the club and Ronaldo's representatives over a month. However, financing the deal and persuading Ronaldo to move to MLS proved challenging. Ronaldo ultimately chose a different path, accepting a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.

Modric, the former Real Madrid star, also faced MLS interest, with San Diego FC and Inter Miami reportedly exploring moves for him. Modric, however, extended his contract with Real Madrid for another year before moving to AC Milan in July 2025. Neymar, another high-profile name, was also linked with MLS clubs, with Inter Miami showing interest in reuniting with Messi and Luis Suárez.

However, Neymar agreed to a one-year contract extension with Santos, leading to an end to the possibility of an MLS reunion with the other two former Barça stars.