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MLS sets new transfer spending record in 2026

ReutersReuters4 hours ago
MLS sets new transfer spending record in 2026

MLS clubs spent a record $370 million on player acquisitions in 2026, while also generating a league-best $218 million in transfer revenue.

Major League Soccer enjoyed another record-setting year in transfer spending, shelling out $370 million on player ​acquisitions in 2026, the league said on Wednesday.

The ‌total is a $34 million increase from last year's record of $336 million and more than double 2023's $172 million spending total.

Eight ​clubs set their own transfer records, with St. ​Louis City doing so twice. Toronto FC ⁠acquired American striker Josh Sargent in February for ​a reported $22 million, one of the largest transfer fees ​in the league's history.

This year saw 30 players with World Cup experience join MLS clubs, including 20 who were part ​of 2026 World Cup squads.

There were 186 international ​signings in 2026, spanning 51 countries. More than 30 signings came ‌from ⁠clubs within the top five European leagues.

The league also generated a record $218 million in transfer revenue, led by Australian Lucas Herrington joining Hull City for ​a reported base ​fee of $17 ⁠million and American Zavier Gozo's reported $15 million move to Crystal Palace.

Fifteen players developed ​in MLS earned multimillion-dollar transfers in 2026, ​totaling ⁠more than $65 million in outgoing fees.

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