The MLS already has the likes of Lionel Messi and Son Heung-min tearing up the league, and there might be another major international name joining the league soon.
Legendary Brazilian player Neymar is in preliminary talks to join the American league, per Paul Tenorio and Tom Bogert.
While that might seem surprising, that’s not all.
Neymar has been linked to the MLS before, but the destination has always been one of the obvious choices: Los Angeles (either FC or Galaxy), New York City FC, or in South Beach with Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami CF.
It’s none of those cities or teams.
The team possibly in the process of signing one of the 21st century’s biggest soccer stars? FC Cincinnati.
“FC Cincinnati engage Neymar’s camp on preliminary talks,” Bogert posted. “Very preliminary. Still internal discussions at club about whether to push for the global superstar… but Cincy is gauging Neymar’s interest/requirements.”
FC Cincinnati, which has been in the MLS since 2019, has captured a strong fanbase in Ohio and ranked in the top 10 in average attendance last season.
After missing the postseason in their first three seasons, FC Cincinnati has been one of the more competitive teams in the Eastern Conference, ranking in the top five of the league standings over the past three years.
But even though they’ve won the Supporters’ Shield for best record in the regular season and made the MLS Cup semifinals, they’ve still never made it to the final game of a season.
A move for Neymar wouldn’t only put them at the forefront of the league in merchandise and ticket sales, but it might also give them the final piece they need to get over the hump.
“Neymar is under contract with Santos through the end of the year,” continued Bogert on social media. “Cincy believes they are a destination for global names and USMNT stars alike and has explored potential deals in the past.”