Major League Soccer is set to welcome another global icon as Robert Lewandowski has reached an agreement to join the Chicago Fire.
The legendary Polish striker is in line for a free transfer to the United States following the conclusion of his trophy-laden spell with Barcelona.
According to The Athletic, the 37-year-old marksman has agreed to a two-year contract with the Chicago Fire.
Following his departure from Barca as a free agent, the veteran forward fielded interest from AC Milan and the Saudi Pro League, but has ultimately chosen to continue his career in North America.
The move will be a massive coup for MLS, ensuring the league maintains its momentum in attracting world-class talent.
Lewandowski, who visited Chicago earlier this month to inspect the club’s facilities and discuss the project, is expected to be among the league’s highest earners.
He is set to follow in the footsteps of Barcelona icon Lionel Messi in making the jump to the United States during the twilight of a remarkable career.
Chicago Fire head coach and director of football Gregg Berhalter has been vocal about his desire to bring elite talent to Soldier Field.
Speaking about the pursuit of the striker, Berhalter said: “We’re trying to recruit world-class players. We think (Lewandowski would) be a great signing not only for the Chicago Fire, but for the league, to have a player of that caliber. “We see him right up there with Messi in terms of ability, and it’d be great for the city of Chicago.”
The Poland international is set to leave Europe as a certified legend, having secured his third league title in his four years with Barcelona.
His arrival is timed to boost the Fire’s profile ahead of their move to the new McDonald’s Park stadium in the South Loop, while serving the city’s significant Polish population.
The landscape of MLS has shifted dramatically since Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023, and Lewandowski is set to be the latest piece in that puzzle.
Lewandowski will be joining a side with genuine silverware ambitions, too, as The Fire currently sit third in the 2026 Eastern Conference, five points behind Inter Miami having played a game less.
