MLS is growing at a great pace and ever more eyes are being drawn to a league which is enjoying something of a renaissance.
But the longevity of this surge in popularity will be dependent on the continued ability of MLS to bring in top talent.
Here are 5 Premier League players who could feasibly move stateside over the next year or so.
Rio Ferdinand
Says that he will retire at the end of the EPL season. But we feel that he’s not only perfect for the MLS but that he could be persuaded to move to a country which he clearly likes, to continue his playing career. Ferdinand is, for our money, the best centre back to play in The English Premier League – some statement considering the defensive quality that has passed through.
But, in his prime, Ferdinand could not only handle the physical side of the game. He was also head and shoulders above any other defender in terms of technique. His ability with the ball at his feet could put many a top level striker to shame. At 35 he could be a gem for MLS.
Emmanuel Adebayor
Still only 30 but he looks like he’s tiring of The Premier League. He’s out of contract next year and will almost certainly move from his current club Tottenham.
Steven Gerrard
Ok, even at 34, this guy would be highly sought after in Europe if he did leave Liverpool. But he may fancy relocating his family to sunnier climbs and would be a fantastic coup for MLS.
Tomas Rosicky
The 34 year old Arsenal midfielder has put in a great shift for his club since signing in 2006. But we would be surprised if he stayed on for another season. Would be a commanding presence in MLS and a good buy for someone.
Yaya Toure
Another who could still surely play for lots of big clubs in Europe. But at 31 there is intense speculation that he will soon leave his current club Manchester City. And he looks as if he could do with playing in a league that is less about breakneck pace and more about technique. MLS may give Toure the room to show off his immense talent once more. This would be a massive coup and may not seem like such an outlandish prospect if he gets offered a lucrative contract from a club in America.
Toure would undoubtedly light up MLS. Let’s see him in action
