Summer MLS Transfers: Key Potential Moves for Top Teams in 2023

The Major League Soccer (MLS) summer transfer window is upon us, running from July 18 to August 14. During this period, clubs have the opportunity to sign new players to strengthen their squads. However, any new additions will not be eligible to debut until the window officially opens. With the season well underway, several teams are looking to make significant moves to enhance their chances of success. Let’s dive into what each team might need and who could be pivotal signings during this transfer window.

LA Galaxy: Focus on Defensive Reinforcement

LA Galaxy has consistently boasted a strong offensive lineup, but their defense has been a concern. They've had moments of brilliance in attack but faltered defensively, leaving them vulnerable. The team is in desperate need of a center back who brings leadership, experience, and pace. Such a player would not only provide stability but could also inspire the rest of the defensive unit. The significance of a solid central defender cannot be underestimated as it serves as the backbone for any successful team. With the right addition, LA Galaxy could transform their defense and become formidable contenders.

FC Cincinnati: Striker Search Continues

FC Cincinnati has impressed with a sturdy backline this season. Their defensive resilience has been commendable, and maintained largely by the efforts of their standout player, Luciano Acosta. However, their attack struggles have been evident, with the absence of a reliable striker. Despite creating numerous chances in games, they have often lacked the finishing touch to convert opportunities into goals. Signing a high-quality striker would significantly bolster their attacking threat and complement Acosta’s creativity. Their search for a dependable goal scorer continues, and it remains a crucial area they need to address.

Inter Miami: Shoring Up the Defense

Inter Miami has faced defensive challenges, compounded by the unfortunate injury to Nicolás Freire. His ACL injury has left a gaping hole in their backline. It has become imperative for the team to find a robust and reliable center-back who can provide defensive stability. With a spirited fan base behind them, an improved defense could see Inter Miami competing at a much higher level. The summer transfer window offers them a chance to strengthen their defenses and enhance their performance in the league.

Real Salt Lake: Offensive Augmentation

Real Salt Lake has shown potential in attack but needs more firepower. Signing a striker who can stretch defenses and create space is essential. Chicho Arango has been pivotal for them, but additional support is necessary to maintain a consistent threat upfront. This summer transfer window represents an opportunity to augment their attacking prowess and ensure they remain competitive in the league.

LAFC: Eyeing Big Names

LAFC has been linked with some of the biggest names in world football, including Olivier Giroud and potentially Antoine Griezmann. The acquisition of such high-caliber players would be a game-changer for LAFC. Giroud, known for his prowess in front of goal, and Griezmann's creativity and versatility would significantly enhance their attacking and midfield options. These players could provide the spark LAFC needs to dominate the league and challenge for trophies.

Charlotte FC: Creativity and Goals Needed

Charlotte FC has shown promise but still lacks creativity and reliable goal-scoring options. They are in dire need of a creative No. 10 and a dependable striker. Such signings would add dynamism to their play and make them more threatening in the final third. Addressing these gaps in the summer transfer window is crucial for their aspirations to climb higher up the league table.

Colorado Rapids: Enhancing the Attack

Colorado Rapids have made positive strides under Chris Armas, but there's room for improvement. A creative wide player could add a new dimension to their attack. Such a player would provide the creativity and flair required to break down defenses and create goal-scoring opportunities. Building on their improved performance, the Rapids could emerge as strong contenders with the right additions.

The upcoming transfer window is not just an opportunity to strengthen squads but also a time for clubs to reassess their strategies. Bold moves in the transfer market can make a significant impact on a team’s fortunes. As the MLS teams prepare for this crucial period, fans will be eagerly awaiting the announcements and hoping their clubs can make the right decisions. Ultimately, the success of these potential signings could determine which teams will be lifting trophies at the end of the season.

16 Comments

Hailey Parker
June 21, 2024 AT 16:33

LA Galaxy needs a center back like they need another coffee machine that breaks every week. Seriously, they score goals like it’s a video game, then let in three from a corner. Just sign someone who’s not 37 and still thinks ‘tackling’ means waving at the ball.
John Bartow
June 23, 2024 AT 14:21

You know what’s wild? The fact that MLS teams are now talking about signing players like Giroud and Griezmann like it’s the Premier League. I mean, I get it-LAFC wants to be the New York of soccer-but when your stadium has more parking spots than actual fans in the stands, maybe focus on building a fanbase before you try to buy a Champions League squad. It’s not just about the name on the jersey, it’s about the soul in the stands. And right now? The soul’s on vacation.
Mark L
June 25, 2024 AT 04:13

I mean… Giroud in MLS?? 😱🔥 I’m lowkey here for it. Imagine him holding up the ball like a boulder and then just… *thwack*… goal. Also, can we talk about how Acosta is basically the reason FC Cincinnati doesn’t lose every game? He’s the human WiFi signal for their attack. 🤯
Orlaith Ryan
June 26, 2024 AT 13:04

Inter Miami needs a center-back NOW! Don’t wait! Don’t overthink! Just sign someone!
Jacquelyn Barbero
June 27, 2024 AT 11:38

I love how every team says they need a striker… but no one’s talking about the midfielders who never get the ball. Like, if your No. 10 is running on fumes and your wingers are just… standing there… maybe the problem isn’t the finisher. Maybe it’s the delivery. Just saying. 🙃
toby tinsley
June 27, 2024 AT 22:32

There’s a quiet truth here: MLS teams aren’t really buying players. They’re buying hope. And hope doesn’t come with a contract. It comes with culture. A team that believes in its identity will outperform one that just bought a fancy name. The real transfer window isn’t July-it’s the one inside the locker room.
Chris Richardson
June 28, 2024 AT 03:15

Honestly, the biggest transfer window move for most teams isn’t signing a star-it’s fixing their youth academy. If you’re still trying to win with 30-year-olds because you never developed talent, you’re playing with fire. Invest in kids. Build a pipeline. The future’s not in Paris or Madrid-it’s in your local high school.
Arvind Pal
June 30, 2024 AT 03:11

Charlotte FC needs a No. 10? Bro they need someone who can pass the ball past the halfway line without tripping over their own feet
Mark Archuleta
June 30, 2024 AT 12:00

Look, the tactical architecture of MLS is fundamentally mismatched with the global market. You can’t just slap a world-class striker into a 4-4-2 that’s built on transition and expect it to function. You need systemic alignment-possession metrics, pressing triggers, spatial occupancy. Otherwise you’re just buying a Ferrari and driving it on gravel. The front office needs to think like a data scientist, not a fantasy league manager.
Pete Thompson
July 1, 2024 AT 10:31

Oh great, another article pretending MLS is on the brink of global relevance. Giroud? In MLS? He’s 37. He’s not here to win trophies-he’s here to cash a check and retire in a beach house. Meanwhile, real soccer nations are developing players who can actually play. This isn’t progress. It’s a marketing stunt dressed in cleats.
Richard Berry
July 2, 2024 AT 23:22

Wait so if you sign someone in july they cant play till the window opens? so like… they sign him on july 19 but cant play till aug 14? that makes no sense lol
Sandy Everett
July 3, 2024 AT 15:11

Every team says they need a striker, but no one ever talks about the defensive midfielder who’s doing the work of three people. Maybe we should celebrate the unsung heroes before we go chasing stars.
J Mavrikos
July 4, 2024 AT 03:59

I’ve been watching Real Salt Lake all season. Chicho’s good, but they need someone who can run past defenders and make the keeper panic. Not just a finisher-a nightmare. Like, someone who makes defenders think twice before they sleep. That’s the kind of player who changes games.
DJ Paterson
July 6, 2024 AT 03:37

There’s something poetic about how the best teams in MLS are the ones who’ve learned to win without spending millions. They don’t need Giroud. They need grit. They need a guy who’ll dive for a 50-50 ball at 89’ and somehow come up with it. That’s the soul of this league. Not the names on the back of the jersey.
Nikhil nilkhan
July 7, 2024 AT 00:48

I think the real issue is not who they sign but how they use them. A great striker in the wrong system is just a guy who runs in circles. Maybe the coaches need to change their ideas before the front office buys new players.
Hailey Parker
July 8, 2024 AT 07:16

Wait, so you’re telling me a team in Colorado needs a creative winger… but they’re still playing 4-4-2? That’s like putting a Ferrari engine in a tractor and then complaining it doesn’t go fast enough. Fix the formation first, then buy the player. Or don’t. Just keep losing.

Summer MLS Transfers: Key Potential Moves for Top Teams in 2023