Major League Soccer (MLS) revealed on Wednesday that its clubs have set new benchmarks in both player acquisition and transfer revenue for the 2026 season. Teams collectively spent over $370 million on international transfers, up from $336 million in 2025, marking a significant increase in investment.
High‑profile signings boost league profile
Among the marquee arrivals were former European champions Robert Lewandowski joining the Chicago Fire, Antoine Griezmann heading to Orlando City, forward Josh Sargent signing with Toronto FC, and Breel Embolo moving to Atlanta United. In total, thirty players with World Cup experience entered MLS, including twenty who participated in the 2026 World Cup, and the average age of new arrivals was just over 25.
International diversity expands
The league reported 186 international players signed by MLS clubs, representing 51 different nations. Brazil led the way with sixteen Brazilian players joining MLS teams, underscoring the league’s growing global reach.
Transfer revenue hits a new high
MLS clubs also generated a record $218 million in revenue from player transfers, up from $202 million the previous year. Fifteen players who commanded multi‑million‑dollar fees moved through the MLS Pro Player Pathway, including Benjamin Cremaschi, who transferred from Miami to Parma in Italy, and Sebastian Berhalter, who joined Middlesbrough from Vancouver.
Homegrown talent commands premium
Real Salt Lake’s homegrown player Zavier Gozo was sold to Crystal Palace for a reported $22 million, establishing a new record for an MLS homegrown transfer.
Comparative spending abroad
For context, English clubs collectively spent $4.7 billion during the same summer transfer window, with Manchester City alone allocating $600 million—a record amount for a single club.
Schedule shift to align with global calendar
MLS announced that it will transition to a summer‑to‑spring schedule beginning next year, aligning its season more closely with international leagues and transfer windows. Currently, the regular season runs from late February to early November.
The league’s record‑setting spending and revenue figures reflect its continued growth and ambition to attract top talent from around the world, positioning MLS as a competitive destination on the global soccer stage.
Original reporting: Richardson, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
