Photo Credit: Punch Newspapers / Getty Images (File photos of Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric and Neymar)
How Ronaldo, Modric and Neymar Missed Out on MLS Moves – Report
Football superstars Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric and Neymar all came close to joining Major League Soccer (MLS) at different points in their careers, but blockbuster moves to the United States failed to materialize.

According to a report by The Economic Times, as reported by Punch, several MLS clubs explored deals for some of the biggest names in world football, but high financial demands, contract decisions and personal preferences stopped the transfers.

Ronaldo’s near move in 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo attracted strong MLS interest in 2022 as he approached the end of his second spell at Manchester United. At 37, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was weighing his options after his time at Juventus.

MLS sides including LA Galaxy, Inter Miami and Sporting Kansas City were reportedly keen. Sporting Kansas City, who had Ronaldo on their discovery list — giving them priority to negotiate — held several meetings with his representatives over the course of a month and talks progressed significantly.

However, financing the deal proved too difficult and convincing Ronaldo to move to America was another hurdle. He eventually opted for Saudi Arabia, joining Al-Nassr after his fallout at Old Trafford.

Modric, Ramos and Navas linked to San Diego FC

Former Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric was another target. As his Real Madrid contract neared its end in 2024, both San Diego FC and Inter Miami reportedly showed interest in signing the Croatian captain.

Modric instead extended his deal at the Bernabeu for another year, captaining the side in his final season before leaving for AC Milan in July 2025.

San Diego FC also explored moves for two other ex-Real Madrid stars — defender Sergio Ramos and goalkeeper Keylor Navas — but neither deal was completed.

No MSN reunion for Neymar

Neymar was another major name who could have added huge star power to the league. Inter Miami reportedly dreamed of reuniting Barcelona’s famous MSN trio — Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar — in MLS.

That reunion dream ended when Neymar agreed to extend his contract with Santos for another year in January 2026. With that deal set to expire in December 2026, he is expected to retire from professional football, ending hopes of joining Messi and Suarez in Miami.

While none of the moves happened, the interest in Ronaldo, Modric, Ramos, Navas and Neymar highlights the growing appeal of MLS as a destination for global icons in the latter stages of their careers.
Source: Punch Newspapers