In football circles, one of the pressing questions is: can MLS players transfer to Europe? The short answer is yes, absolutely — MLS players can, do, and regularly move to European clubs. But like any big move, it’s more complex than just “set sail, sign contract.” In this article, SansBall will walk you through how the process works, what the rules are, what challenges arise, and highlight some recent examples to show how it plays out in reality.
How transfers from MLS to Europe actually work
MLS (Major League Soccer) operates under distinct rules compared to many European leagues. These rules affect how transfers happen, who negotiates what, and how contracts are split. Here are the essentials:
- MLS single-entity structure: Unlike European leagues where clubs individually own their players’ contracts, MLS centrally owns all player contracts, and clubs are, in effect, “franchisees.” This means when a player moves, sell-on clauses, etc., reflect that.
- Roster rules and contract windows: Players can move when the receiving European club’s transfer window is open, and when other procedural approvals are done. MLS has its own “primary” and “secondary” windows for international transfers.
- Player consent and eligibility: As with any international transfer, the player must agree, international transfer certificates must be issued, and visa/work permit rules of the destination country must be satisfied. Nothing special there compared toer transfers.
- Distribution of fees: Because of the MLS structure, when a transfer fee is paid by the European club, that money often is split between the club and MLS. The exact percentages vary depending on whether the player is homegrown, a designated player, whether Targeted Allocation Money (TAM) or other mechanisms were involved, etc.
- Sell-on and other clauses: MLS deals often include sell-on clauses (i.e. if the player is sold again later, part of that fee goes back). Because MLS controls the contract, sometimes the originating club receives less than might be expected in Europe. The league sometimes negotiates favorable terms when players leave, especially younger or homegrown talent.
Why European clubs are interested in MLS talent
It’s not just about rules — there’s increasing motivation and trend behind these transfers. Here’s what’s fueling interest:
- Quality rising: MLS academies and youth development have improved. Young players are more experienced, more technically and physically ready for move abroad. European scouts are noticing.
- Cost effectiveness: Compared to buying.
- Market visibility increasing: Easier access to highlights, better scouting networks, international tournaments. MLS exports are becoming more common, especially to Belgian, Dutch, Scandinavian, and even mid-level Big 5 European leagues.
- Regulatory changes in MLS: MLS has tweaked roster and transfer rules to allow more flexibility (both incoming and outgoing). This helps facilitate transfers abroad.
Challenges MLS players face when moving to Europe
Even though the path is open, there are hurdles that must be overcome:
- Work permit / visa issues
- Many European countries have strict rules about non-EU/non-EEA players, minimum salary thresholds, or national team appearances. A young or less internationally experienced MLS player may struggle securing a permit.
- Adjustment to style / pace
- Different tactical styles, faster/increased intensity, weather, language, culture. Not every player can hit the ground running.
- Financial negotiations & contract complexity
- Because MLS owns the contract, negotiations can be more complex (league, club, player all involved). Fees might be high, clubs want assurances. European clubs sometimes regard MLS asking prices as inflated for players without European experience.
- Scouting and exposure
- Some talented MLS players still fly under the radar, particularly outside the U.S./Canada national team scene. Visibility matters.
- Competition
- MLS players are competing with South America, Africa, Asia — many markets feeding young talent into Europe. They must stand out.
Recent examples: MLS players who transferred to Europe
Putting theory into practice, here are some recent success stories, showing that MLS players can transfer to Europe — and often with impact.
- Nathan Saliba (CF Montréal → Anderlecht, Belgium): A homegrown midfielder, age ~21. His development in Montreal’s academy and MLS led to a move to RSC Anderlecht in mid-2025. Fee reported in millions.
- Esmir Bajraktarevic (New England Revolution → PSV Eindhoven): A promising young forward. New England arranged the move in early 2025, including sell-on rights to protect their interest.
- Brenner (FC Cincinnati → Udinese, Serie A): A clear example of an MLS output moving to a major European league. He transferred in 2023 and has been part of the Serie A competition since.
- Caleb Wiley: Another young U.S. full-back who transferred to a big European club.
These cases confirm the pathway is real and increasingly viable.
Tips and strategies for MLS players who want to move to Europe
For any MLS player considering a move, or for fans curious how it might happen, here are useful strategies:
- Excel MLS and with national team: Strong domestic performance + international caps help with visibility and with meeting work permit criteria in many European nations.
- Stay young and adaptable: Youth is advantageous. Clubs in Europe invest in potential. Players who are technically strong, quick learners, and adaptable tend to be more attractive.
- Choose the right European destination: Sometimes moving first to a smaller European league (Belgium, Netherlands, Scandinavia) is a good stepping stone before targeting Big 5 (England, Spain, Germany, Italy, France).
- Ensure good representation/agent: Someone who understands both MLS rules and European transfer systems can help negotiate favorable deals for player, home club, and league.
- Consider contract status: If contract is expiring, free transfers become possible. Or loan deals with purchase option. Homegrown status can influence fee splits and percentages.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Is there any restriction by MLS preventing players from leaving?
Not really. Once a player agrees and the international club satisfies legal, work permit, and registration requirements, the transfer can happen. The main restrictions are administrative (contracts, windows) and eligibility. MLS does not block moves arbitrarily if terms are agreed.
Q: Can any MLS player move to any European club?
In theory, yes. In practice, it depends on the player’s ability, reputation, international exposure, the club’s willingness to pay, and work permit regulations of the destination country.
Q: Will the MLS club always get a large fee?
Not always. Fees depend on the player’s age, contract, perceived potential, market demand. Sometimes transfer involves nominal fees; other times, contracts are structured to maximize sale value (sell-on, bonuses, performance clauses).
Why this matters for you, the fan
Knowing that MLS players can transfer to Europe is more than a technicality—it defines how we view the league, our favorite players, and their trajectories. It means:
- Watching MLS isn’t just watching a U.S./Canada league—it’s watching future European professionals in training.
- Transfer rumors involving MLS players are serious possibilities, not just fantasy.
- Homegrown talent gets rewarded—players.
Conclusion
Can MLS players transfer to Europe? Yes — and increasingly so. They can, they do, and many are thriving. MLS rules, while unique, permit international transfers; work permit and contract issues are real but manageable. Recent examples like Nathan Saliba, Esmir Bajraktarevic, Brenner, and Caleb Wiley show that the pathway is open.
If you’re an MLS player or just a fan, here’s what you can do: keep an eye on domestic performance, chase international exposure, understand contract situations, and aim for Europe wisely. SansBall invites you to stay tuned—to follow transfer windows, rising talents, and breaking deals. If you want profiles of specific MLS players who might move next, or guidance on which European leagues are most accessible, let me know—there’s more to explore!
