Robert Lewandowski agrees Chicago Fire transfer as ex-Barcelona striker prepares to join Lionel Messi in MLS

Marquee deal for Polish icon

According to

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.

'Great for the city of Chicago'

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.

Potential reunion with Goretzka

Lewandowski’s arrival might only be the start of a major recruitment drive for the Fire. The Athletic adds that the club is hoping that Lewandowski's arrival can help convince his former Bayern Munich teammate Leon Goretzka to also join the club.

The Germany international remains in discussions with the MLS side, and the Fire hope that the prospect of reuniting with Lewandowski will convince him to choose Chicago over competing offers from major European clubs.

MLS continues star-studded expansion

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. The league is currently enjoying a surge of commercial interest, bolstered by the presence of stars like Son Heung-min and Thomas Muller across various franchises. 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.