Columbus Crew have won MLS Cup 2023 presented by Audi over LAFC, meaning it's time for all 29 clubs to enter offseason mode.
This year-end roster tracker sets the stage for 2024. Players who are staying, those who are going and others who are in flux are included.
DEC. 12 – Fresh off the club's third MLS Cup title, Columbus look set to return most of their championship-winning group.
The only high-impact player who's in flux is wingback Julian Gressel, who's out of contract and becomes a free agent. The US international was acquired in a midseason trade from Vancouver, though wasn't always first choice under head coach Wilfried Nancy.
With all this roster stability, Crew fans will rightly dream of a repeat in 2024.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 12)
- Mohamed Farsi (D)
- Alex Matan (M)
- Kevin Molino (M)
- Philip Quinton (D)
- Will Sands (D)
- Patrick Schulte (GK)
- Sean Zawadzki (M)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 12)
- Jimmy Medranda (D)
- Jake Morris (D)
- Isaiah Parente (M)
- Brady Scott (GK)
Out of Contract (Dec. 12)
- Julian Gressel (M)
- Josh Williams (D)
Loan Expiration (Dec. 12)
- Gustavo Vallecilla (D)
DEC. 12 – Early in the offseason, LAFC face a lengthy list of questions. Co-president/GM John Thorrington and his staff will be busy.
We already know Giorgio Chiellini has retired. It's unclear if free agents Carlos Vela, Diego Palacios, Kellyn Acosta and Maxime Crépeau will return (though the Black & Gold are in talks to retain them). That's five starters from their MLS Cup 2023 finalist team!
There's extra focus on Vela's status, given his history and stature within the club. Will they reach a new deal, of the DP or TAM variety?
As that all gets sorted, LAFC are also in talks to keep goalkeeper John McCarthy and center back Denil Maldonado (among others) for 2024.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 12)
- Erik Dueñas (M)
- Jesús Murillo (D)
- Abraham Romero (GK)
- Ilie Sánchez (M)
Out of Contract (Dec. 12)
- Kellyn Acosta (M)
- Maxime Crépeau (GK)
- Diego Palacios (D)
- Carlos Vela (F)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 12)
- Danny Crisostomo (M)
- Julian Gaines (D)
- Eldin Jakupovic (GK)
- Tony Leone (D)
- Denil Maldonado (D)
- John McCarthy (GK)
- Diego Rosales (D)
- Christian Torres (M)
- Mohamed Traore (D)
DEC. 11 – After being on loan during their club-record season, Orlando City are in discussions to bring back winger Iván Angulo and midfielder Wilder Cartagena for 2024. Angulo was in town from Brazil’s Palmeiras, while Cartagena joined from Emrati club Al-Ittihad.
Additionally, Orlando confirmed they’re in talks to transfer Antônio Carlos even though his contract option was picked up. The center back will reportedly join Brazilian side Fluminense.
As previously announced, the Lions and midfielder/captain Mauricio Pereyra agreed to mutually terminate the player’s contract as he explores new opportunities.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 11)
- Antônio Carlos (D)
- Mikey Halliday (D)
- Robin Jansson (D)
- Jack Lynn (F)
- Felipe Martins (M)
- Duncan McGuire (F)
- Luca Petrasso (D)
- Abdi Salim (D)
- Kyle Smith (D)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 11)
- Wilfredo Rivera (F)
- Júnior Urso (M)
Loan Expiration (Dec. 11)
- Iván Angulo (F)
- Wilder Cartagena (M)
Out of Contract (Dec. 11)
- Adam Grinwis (GK)
DEC. 6 – A busy winter awaits Supporters’ Shield winners FC Cincinnati, who have 23 players under contract for next season.
Two starters – right back Santiago Arias (contract option declined) and midfielder Junior Moreno (out of contract) – are in talks with Cincy about a new deal. There are also discussions with striker Dominique Badji, defender Ray Gaddis and midfielder Yuya Kubo, who all saw their contract option declined.
Additionally, center back Yerson Mosquera could return. His loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers has ended, but the club is in conversations with the Premier League team about a potential return.
Another area to monitor: left wingback Álvaro Barreal and striker Brandon Vazquez are under contract, but it’s no secret that they've generated transfer interest from European clubs.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 6)
- Ian Murphy (D)
- Arquimides Ordoñez (F)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 6)
- Santiago Arias (D)
- Dominique Badji (F)
- Ray Gaddis (D)
- Yuya Kubo (M)
- Harrison Robledo (M)
Out of Contract (Dec. 6)
- Junior Moreno (M)
Loan Expiration (Dec. 6)
- Yerson Mosquera (D)
DEC. 4 – Two starters from Houston's Western Conference finalist/US Open Cup-winning group are out of contract and eligible for free agency: forward Corey Baird and right back Griffin Dorsey. Baird had 8g/6a in 34 games this year, while Dorsey developed into an attacking threat with 3g/2a in 19 games.
Elsewhere, winger Iván Franco is heading back to Paraguayan side Libertad after his season-long loan. And Zimbabwe international center back Teenage Hadebe, originally signed as a DP in 2021, saw his contract option declined after 51 games with the club.
Houston, with 21 players on the roster for 2024, are "negotiating with select players about their return." That figure includes DP striker Sebastián Ferreira, who, after not fitting into head coach Ben Olsen's plans, has had a lackluster loan spell at Brazilian side Vasco da Gama.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 4)
- Luis Caicedo (M)
- Tate Schmitt (D)
- Thor Úlfarsson (F)
- Xavier Valdez (GK)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 4)
- Ifunanyachi Achara (F)
- Charles Auguste (M)
- Beto Avila (F)
- Teenage Hadebe (D)
- Mujeeb Murana (D)
- Daniel Rios (F)
- Matías Vera (M)
Out of Contract (Dec. 4)
- Corey Baird (F)
- Griffin Dorsey (D)
Loan Expiration (Dec. 4)
- Iván Franco (F)
DEC. 4 – What's long been discussed is now official, as legendary No. 10 Nicolás Lodeiro is out of contract. He seems highly unlikely to return to Seattle for 2024, opening a DP spot for a potential marquee addition.
On the goalkeeper front, Sounder At Heart's Jeremiah Oshan has reported longtime starter Stefan Frei will return even though he's currently out of contract. Additionally, backup Stefan Cleveland had his contract option declined and is eligible for free agency.
At striker, Héber's one-year run in Rave Green is over and all-time leading scorer Fredy Montero is out of contract. Those moves create a need for No. 9 depth alongside Raúl Ruidíaz and Jordan Morris.
Expect most of Seattle's core back next year, including center backs Yeimar Gómez Andrade and Jackson Ragen and midfielders João Paulo and Albert Rusnák after their contract options were exercised.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 4)
- Josh Atencio (M)
- Xavier Arreaga (D)
- Jacob Castro (GK)
- Yeimar Gómez Andrade (D)
- João Paulo (M)
- Jackson Ragen (D)
- Paul Rothrock (M)
- Albert Rusnák (M)
- Dylan Teves (M/F)
- Andrew Thomas (GK)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 4)
- Stefan Cleveland (GK)
- Ethan Dobbelaere (D/M)
- Héber (F)
Out of Contract (Dec. 4)
- Abdoulaye Cissoko (D)
- Stefan Frei (GK)
- Nicolás Lodeiro (M)
- Fredy Montero (F)
- Kelyn Rowe (M)
DEC. 4 – Will they stay or go? We're referring to captain/midfielder Alejandro Bedoya and All-Star left back Kai Wagner, who are both out of contract. As of now, Philadelphia say they're in ongoing conversations with the duo.
Head coach Jim Curtin and sporting director Ernst Tanner seemed at odds over Bedoya returning or not. The Wagner situation is less clear, given his ongoing suspension and status as a sought-after free agent (either within MLS or abroad).
Philly also exercised the contract option on Julián Carranza, hedging against a possible transfer to Europe this winter. The Argentine striker is among their 25 players under contract for the 2024 campaign.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 4)
- Julián Carranza (F)
- Chris Donovan (F)
- Leon Flach (M)
- Damion Lowe (D)
- Jeremy Rafanello (F)
- Joaquín Torres (M/F)
- Holden Trent (GK)
Contract Option Declined (Dec. 4)
- Anton Sorenson (D)
Out of Contract (Dec. 4)
- Alejandro Bedoya (M)
- Joe Bendik (GK)
- Kai Wagner (D)
DEC. 1 – An underwhelming MLS stay is over for Ménder García, as Minnesota declined the DP's contract option. The Colombian striker produced just 4g/2a in 39 games after arriving midway through the 2022 season. Teemu Pukki and Emanuel Reynoso are their other DPs.
Veteran center backs Bakaye Dibassy and Brent Kallman are also leaving the Loons after combining to play in 185 regular-season games.
Will a similar fate await winger Ismael Tajouri-Shradi and central midfielder Wil Trapp? The Loons are undergoing contract negotiations with that duo, as well as winger Cameron Dunbar and goalkeeper Fred Emmings.
Zooming out, Minnesota must appoint a full-time head coach for their post-Adrian Heath era. They're also waiting for new sporting director Khaled El-Ahmad to arrive from English third-tier side Barnsley.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 1)
- Kervin Arriaga (M)
- Michael Boxall (D)
- Tani Oluwaseyi (F)
- Joseph Rosales (M)
- Zarek Valentin (D)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 1)
- Bakaye Dibassy (D)
- Eric Dick (GK)
- Fred Emmings (GK)
- Ménder García (F)
- Jan Gregus (M)
- Emmanuel Iwe (M)
- Ryen Jiba (D)
- Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (F)
Out of Contract (Dec. 1)
- Cameron Dunbar (F)
- Brent Kallman (D)
- Wil Trapp (M)
DEC. 1 – Several significant updates emerged from the Earthquakes, including that DP midfielder Jamiro Monteiro’s contract option was declined. The Cape Verde international is eligible for free agency and boasts 14g/33a in 134 regular-season games during his MLS career.
San Jose's backline is in flux, too. Jonathan Mensah is out of contract/eligible for free agency after arriving in a preseason trade with the Columbus Crew. Nathan isn’t returning after missing 2023 with a torn ACL. Peruvian international left back Miguel Trauco's contract option was declined. And, as expected, San Jose have exercised their purchase option on Rodrigues after his initial loan from Brazilian side Grêmio.
In the final third, San Jose aren’t retaining Canadian international Ayo Akinola after he joined midsummer on loan from Toronto FC. Ditto for fellow summertime signing and US international Matthew Hoppe after his loan from Championship side Middlesbrough.
Busy, busy times for Year Two under head coach Luchi Gonzalez.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 1)
- Carlos Akapo (D)
- Michael Baldisimo (M)
- Ousseni Bouda (F)
- Daniel Munie (D)
- Will Richmond (F)
- Jackson Yueill (M)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 1)
- Oskar Ågren (D)
- Cam Cilley (M)
- Judson (M)
- Jamiro Monteiro (M)
- Nathan (D)
- Tommy Thompson (M)
- Keegan Tingey (D)
- Miguel Trauco (D)
Out of Contract (Dec. 1)
- Jonathan Mensah (D)
- Jack Skahan (M)
Loan Expiration (Dec. 1)
- Ayo Akinola (F)
- Matthew Hoppe (F)
DEC. 1 – Sporting Kansas City have bid farewell to club legends Graham Zusi and Roger Espinoza, both of whom had their contract option declined. They are first and second, respectively, in the club’s all-time appearance and minutes played charts.
As that era ends, TBD if DP midfielder Gadi Kinda has also played his final game for the club. The Israeli international is out of contract and received a bona fide offer from Sporting KC. After recovering from a season-ending knee injury in 2022, Kinda boasts 14g/16a in 64 regular-season games.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 1)
- Stephen Afrifa (F)
- Willy Agada (F)
- Robert Castellanos (D)
- Jake Davis (D)
- Danny Flores (M)
- Chris Rindov (D)
- Johnny Russell (F)
- Remi Walter (M)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 1)
- Roger Espinoza (M)
- Kortne Ford (D)
- Felipe Gutiérrez (M)
- Graham Zusi (D)
Out of Contract
- Cam Duke (M)
- Gadi Kinda (M)
- Kendall McIntosh (GK)
DEC. 1 – With their year-end roster update, D.C. United’s squad stands at 19 players for the 2024 season.
That returning group includes only five defenders after Panamanian international Eric Davis and Honduran international Andy Najar both had their contract options denied. Additionally, center backs Donovan Pines and Derrick Williams are out of contract and will test the free-agency waters.
Ally Mackay, the Black-and-Red’s new general manager and chief soccer officer, will be busy in the months ahead. They have an open DP spot alongside striker Christian Benteke and midfielder Mateusz Klich, plus could feasibly sign 10+ players.
Most pressingly, the Eastern Conference club must hire a head coach after Wayne Rooney left in October.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 1)
- Russell Canouse (M)
- Ted Ku-DiPietro (M)
- Ruan (D)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 1)
- Yamil Asad (M)
- Eric Davis (D)
- José Fajardo (F)
- Jacob Greene (D)
- Brendan Hines-Ike (D)
- Erik Hurtado (F)
- Andy Najar (D)
- Nigel Robertha (F)
- Gaoussou Samaké (D)
Out of Contract (Dec. 1)
- Donovan Pines (D)
- Derrick Williams (D)
DEC. 1 – After five seasons at the club, homegrown attacker Omir Fernandez looks set to sign elsewhere. He’s out of contract, having tallied 15 goals and 13 assists in 112 regular-season games for New York.
In other transactions, the Red Bulls have exercised a permanent transfer option for fullback Kyle Duncan through the 2025 season. He was previously on loan from Belgian side Oostende. Colombian youth international striker Jorge Cabezas-Hurtado will return to Watford FC after being on loan.
Two additional details to monitor: striker Tom Barlow and midfielder Dru Yearwood's contract options were picked up, but _The Athletic_'s Tom Bogert has reported they will be traded to Chicago and Nashville this winter, respectively.
All the while, the Red Bulls are seeking a new head coach after not retaining Troy Lesesne. That news was announced on Nov. 14, the same day the club mutually parted ways with longtime sporting director Denis Hamlett.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 1)
- Tom Barlow (F)
- Wiki Carmona (M)
- Cameron Harper (D)
- Dru Yearwood (M)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 1)
- Hassan Ndam (D)
- Matt Nocita (D)
- Jayden Reid (D)
- Steven Sserwadda (M)
Out of Contract (Dec. 1)
- Omir Fernandez (F)
DEC. 1 – An era looks over at CF Montréal. Honduran international striker Romell Quioto is out of contract and is eligible for free agency after posting 49g/36a in 153 games across seven seasons.
Two Canadian internationals – fullback Zachary Brault-Guillard and goalkeeper James Pantemis – had their 2024 contract options declined. Will both/either return on a new deal?
Framing everything is MTL’s to-be-announced head coach. After narrowly missing the playoffs in 2023, they parted ways with Hernán Losada on Nov. 9.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 1)
- Ousman Jabang (D)
- Logan Ketterer (GK)
- Ariel Lassiter (F)
- Róbert Thorkelsson (D)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 1)
- Jean-Aniel Assi (F)
- Zachary Brault-Guillard (D)
- Ahmed Hamdi (M)
- Jojea Kwizera (F)
- James Pantemis (GK)
- Sean Rea (M)
Out of Contract (Dec. 1)
- Romell Quioto (F)
DEC. 1 – With Curt Onalfo elevated to New England's sporting director role, their year-end roster update quickly followed suit.
The major headline is DP striker Gustavo Bou is out of contract after tallying 44g/20a in 100 regular-season games. The 33-year-old Argentine, who battled injuries the past two seasons, is unlikely to return.
Unsurprisingly, the Revs picked up one-year contract options on defender Andrew Farrell and DP midfielder/captain Carles Gil. They also exercised a two-year contract option on midfielder Ian Harkes, who returned to MLS last summer from Scotland.
With Tomás Chancalay permanently acquired as a DP (announced Tuesday), what else awaits in the Revs' post-Bruce Arena era?
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 1)
- Andrew Farrell (D)
- Carles Gil (M)
- Ian Harkes (M)
- Jacob Jackson (GK)
- Damian Rivera (F)
- Ryan Spaulding (D)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 1)
- Emmanuel Boateng (M)
- Maciel (M)
- Christian Makoun (D/M)
- Ben Reveno (D)
- Ben Sweat (D)
Out of Contract (Dec. 1)
- Gustavo Bou (F)
- Omar Gonzalez (D)
- Justin Rennicks (F)
NOV. 30 – A winter of change looms for the Portland Timbers, who on Nov. 6 appointed Phil Neville as head coach.
Their roster reset is headlined by club legend Sebastián Blanco not returning after his contract expired. The Argentine midfielder, who joined the Timbers in 2017, departs with 41g/51a in 176 regular-season games.
As general manager Ned Grabavoy previously announced, the club has opened a Designated Player spot by declining oft-injured striker Jaroslaw Niezgoda's contract option. Also, striker Franck Boli is gone after he tallied 7g/2a in 29 games this past season.
Will veteran Honduran midfielder Bryan Acosta return? He's among those still in discussions.
Contract Option Exercised (Nov. 30)
- Nathan Fogaça (F)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 30)
- Bryan Acosta (M)
- Franck Boli (F)
- Noel Caliskan (M)
- Diego Gutierrez (M)
- Eric Miller (D)
- Jaroslaw Niezgoda (F)
- Justin Rasmussen (D)
Out of Contract (Nov. 30)
- Sebastián Blanco (M)
In Discussions (Nov. 30)
- Bryan Acosta (M)
- David Bingham (GK)
- Eric Miller (D)
NOV. 30 – Two summertime additions are sticking around, as FC Dallas have picked up contract options on central midfielders Asier Illarramendi and Liam Fraser. Illarramendi, who's played in nearly 350 games for Spanish top-flight sides Real Sociedad and Real Madrid, is a big piece for next year.
After three seasons at FCD, central midfielder Facundo Quignon and center back José Martínez both had their contract options declined.
TBD on whether forward Jáder Obrian and veteran goalkeeper Jimmy Maurer are back (ongoing discussions). Obrian carries extra intrigue after tallying 17g/13a in 94 regular-season games. Maurer has backed up Maarten Paes, who's among their 25 players under contract for 2024.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 30)
- Herbert Endeley (F)
- Liam Fraser (M)
- Asier Illarramendi (M)
- Sam Junqua (D)
- Tsiki Ntsabeleng (M)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 30)
- José Martínez (D)
- Facundo Quignón (M)
- Collin Smith (D)
In Discussions (Nov. 30)
- Amet Korça (D)
- Jimmy Maurer (GK)
- Jáder Obrian (F)
NOV. 30 – After a fourth straight playoff appearance, Nashville have bid farewell to two veterans.
Central midfielder Dax McCarty and winger Fafà Picault are both out of contract and eligible for free agency. McCarty, 36, was an inaugural signing for Nashville before their 2020 expansion season. Picault, 32, joined last offseason in a trade from Houston.
Elsewhere, the Eastern Conference club's year-end decisions mostly involve depth pieces.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 30)
- Josh Bauer (D)
- Lukas MacNaughton (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 30)
- Kemy Amiche (F)
- Nick DePuy (D)
- Tyler Freeman (F)
- Ahmed Longmire (D)
- Nebiyou Perry (F)
- Laurence Wyke (D)
- Ethan Zubak (F)
Out of Contract (Nov. 30)
- Luke Haakenson (M)
- Dax McCarty (M)
- Fafà Picault (F)
NOV. 29 – After a record-setting expansion season, St. Louis CITY are poised to largely run it back in 2024. That's a perfectly understandable approach, too, after their odds-defying MLS introduction procured the Western Conference's No. 1 seed and a 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup berth.
The Midwest club has 25 players under contract for 2024, including breakthrough talents Sam Adeniran and Aziel Jackson (contract options exercised). Célio Pompeu and Josh Yaro, two pieces from their 2022 MLS NEXT Pro side, were also retained.
As for departures, Expansion Draft selections Jonathan Bell and John Nelson are both out of contract and available in the year-end Waiver Draft. Left back Selmir Pidro and midfielder Isak Jensen remain out on loan to European clubs.
One big question: With an open DP spot, will St. Louis make a splashy signing? Or are more system-based, team-is-the-star additions en route?
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 29)
- Sam Adeniran (F)
- Lucas Bartlett (D)
- Aziel Jackson (M)
- Anthony Markanich (D)
- Célio Pompeu (M)
- Jared Stroud (M)
- Akil Watts (D)
- Josh Yaro (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 29)
- Michael Creek (GK)
- Max Schneider (M)
Out of Contract (Nov. 29)
- Jonathan Bell (D)
- John Nelson (D)
NOV. 28 – The moves were previously announced, but Colorado have formally bid farewell to midfielder Jack Price and forward Diego Rubio as their new era begins under head coach Chris Armas. Price was their captain and Rubio has 53 career MLS goals.
Veteran goalkeeper William Yarbrough, who's played in 101 regular-season games for the club, saw his contract option declined. But Colorado remain in talks with him, as well as homegrowns Oliver Larraz and Sebastian Anderson after that duo's featured extensively in MLS NEXT Pro.
With 24 players under contract for next season, expect the Rapids to be busy after finishing last (14th) in the Western Conference in 2023.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 28)
- Andrew Gutman (D)
- Calvin Harris (F)
- Ralph Priso (M)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 28)
- Sebastian Anderson (D)
- Steven Beitashour (D)
- Oliver Larraz (M)
- Jack Price (M)
- Abraham Rodriguez (GK)
- Gustavo Vallecilla (D)
- William Yarbrough (GK)
Out of Contract (Nov. 28)
- Luis Díaz (F)
- Diego Rubio (F)
Loan Expired (Nov. 28)
- Danny Leyva (M)
In Discussions (Nov. 28)
- Sebastian Anderson (D)
- Oliver Larraz (M)
- William Yarbrough (GK)
NOV. 22 – Some key roster spots have opened up for Chicago Fire FC, who enter 2024 hoping to end a six-year streak of missing the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. This is on top of appointing a head coach and signing a Designated Player striker/No. 9.
The Eastern Conference club has declined transfer options for defender Alonso Aceves and midfielder Ousmane Doumbia after they were on loan. Aceves, who arrived from Liga MX’s Pachuca, held a U22 Initiative slot. Doumbia, a midseason signing from Swiss sister side FC Lugano, was a DP.
Additionally, Chicago have exercised their purchase option on winger Maren Haile-Selassie. He joined in preseason from FC Lugano and finished as the Fire’s leading scorer with 6g/4a.
As previously announced, veteran striker Kei Kamara is out of contract and seeking a new club. The 39-year-old is third in the all-time MLS scoring charts with 144 goals, trailing Landon Donovan (145) for second place.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 22)
- Jonathan Dean (D)
- Jeff Gall (GK)
- Fabian Herbers (M)
- Wyatt Omsberg (D)
- Spencer Richey (GK)
Purchase Option Exercised (Nov. 22)
- Maren Haile-Selassie (M)
Loans Expiring, Not Returning (Nov. 22)
- Alonso Aceves (D)
- Ousmane Doumbia (M)
Out of Contract (Nov. 22)
- Kei Kamara (F)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 22)
- Kendall Burks (D)
- Alex Monis (M)
- Allan Rodríguez (M)
In Discussions (Nov. 22)
- Javier Casas Jr. (M)
NOV. 17 – The first offseason for Austin FC sporting director Rodolfo Borrell is underway, and the former Manchester City assistant coach has created some wiggle room.
Austin declined the contract option of nine players, including U22 Initiative winger Rodney Redes and veteran attackers like Will Bruin, Memo Rodríguez and Maxi Urruti. Those moves, as well as the summertime trade of Diego Fagundez to the LA Galaxy, indicate Austin will look to retool their attack around star Sebastián Driussi.
An important note: Alex Ring’s contract option for 2024 was automatically exercised due to the midfielder meeting certain benchmarks.
Amid the shuffling, Austin have 20 contracted players for the 2024 campaign. Expect plenty of movement from the Verde & Black, who are trying to recapture their 2022 heights of making the Western Conference Final.
UPDATE: Austin exercised the contract option for defender Hector Jimenez.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 17)
- Damian Las (GK)
- Daniel Pereira (M)
- Alex Ring (M)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 17)
- Charlie Asensio (D)
- Will Bruin (F)
- Sofiane Djeffal (M)
- Kipp Keller (D)
- Adam Lundkvist (D)
- Alfonso Ocampo-Chávez (F)
- Rodney Redes (F)
- Memo Rodríguez (F)
- Maxi Urruti (F)
In Discussions (Nov. 17)
- Hector Jimenez (D)
NOV. 17 – Real Salt Lake have declined Damir Kreilach’s 2024 contract option, but the club legend’s MLS career could continue. RSL remain in discussions with their longtime captain about his future with the club. The Croatian midfielder has tallied 47g/24a in 151 regular-season games across the past six seasons, overcoming a back injury that derailed most of his 2022 campaign.
Danny Musovski is out of contract, likely spelling the end of his RSL career. The forward would bring value to another MLS club after producing 16g/9a in just over 3,000 minutes.
RSL, fresh off a third straight Audi MLS Cup Playoffs trip under head coach Pablo Mastroeni, return the vast majority of their 2023 roster. That includes midfielder Pablo Ruiz, whose contract option was exercised as he recovers from a long-term knee injury.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 17)
- Mikael Chang (M)
- Emeka Eneli (D/M)
- Tomás Gómez (GK)
- Bode Hidalgo (F)
- Jasper Löffelsend (D/M)
- Bryan Oviedo (D)
- Pablo Ruiz (M)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 17)
- Julio Benitez (M)
- Damir Kreilach (M/F)
Out of Contract (Nov. 17)
- Scott Caldwell (M)
- Danny Musovski (F)
Loan Expired, Ongoing Talks (Nov. 17)
- Moses Nyeman (M)
NOV. 17 – US international center back Miles Robinson might have played his final Atlanta United game, as the 26-year-old is out of contract and eligible for free agency. Robinson reportedly has interest from European clubs and, if he stays in MLS, could seek a Designated Player deal similar to USMNT center back Walker Zimmerman at Nashville SC.
There’s also uncertainly around Xande Silva, a key part of Atlanta’s summertime rise. The winger’s loan from French side Dijon will expire at the end of 2023, and the Five Stripes haven’t determined his transfer option.
Another big headline is Matheus Rossetto is out of contract after playing 90 games across four seasons. Atlanta could look to strengthen their central midfield group this winter alongside summer signing Tristan Muyumba and Argentine star Thiago Almada, should the latter player not get transferred abroad.
Circling back to Robinson, Atlanta remain in renewal negotiations with him, homegrown defender Efraín Morales and goalkeeper Quentin Westberg. They've also declined the transfer option on Juanjo Purata after the center back was on loan from Liga MX powerhouse Tigres.
Before more offseason dominoes fall, ATLUTD have 22 players under contract for the 2024 campaign.
Contract Option Exercised (Nov. 17)
- Aiden McFadden (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 17)
- Machop Chol (F)
- Jackson Conway (F)
- Clément Diop (GK)
- Justin Garces (GK)
- Efraín Morales (D)
Out of Contract (Nov. 17)
- Ozzie Alonso (M)
- Miguel Berry (F)
- Miles Robinson (D)
- Matheus Rossetto (M)
- Amar Sejdić (M)
- Quentin Westberg (GK)
Transfer Option Declined (Nov. 17)
- Juanjo Purata (D)
NOV. 10 – The Galaxy’s biggest year-end moves were previously announced, meaning winger Douglas Costa and forward Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez aren’t back in 2024. Crucially, that opens two Designated Player spots alongside midfielder Riqui Puig.
But LA’s roster turnover doesn’t stop there after a 13th-place finish in the Western Conference. They declined contract options for right back Calegari and veteran striker Billy Sharp, among others. Calegari is recovering from a torn ACL and occupied a U22 Initiative roster slot while on loan from Brazilian powerhouse Fluminese. Sharp, a Sheffield United legend, had 6g/2a in 711 minutes after joining midsummer.
Further, winger Michael Barrios and defender Tony Alfaro aren’t in the Galaxy's plans and amounted to half-season rentals. They joined via midsummer trades – Barrios from Colorado Rapids and Alfaro from New York City FC – as LA contended with transfer sanctions.
There's uncertainty around winger Tyler Boyd, who was extended a bona fide offer after posting 7g/4a in 34 games during his first MLS season. Wherever those negotiations net out, LA's roster currently stands at just 21 players.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 10)
- Daniel Aguirre (M)
- Preston Judd (F)
- Novak Mićović (GK)
- Gino Vivi (M)
Extended Bona Fide Offer (Nov. 10)
- Tyler Boyd (F)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 10)
- Tony Alfaro (D)
- Calegari (D)
- Jonathan Klinsmann (GK)
- Kelvin Leerdam (D)
- Uri Rosell (M)
- Billy Sharp (F)
Out of Contract (Nov. 10)
- Michael Barrios (F)
- Douglas Costa (F)
- Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez (F)
- Adam Saldaña (M)
NOV. 10 – Vancouver's strong summer transfer business helped fuel a playoff push, acquiring three Canadian internationals. But from that trio, only wingback Sam Adekugbe is guaranteed to return for 2024.
The Whitecaps are in discussions with both wingback Richie Laryea and forward Junior Hoilett about rejoining. Laryea’s loan from Premier League side Nottingham Forest is through December 2023, while Hoilett is out of contract. Reports indicate Laryea might take their Designated Player spot opened by striker Sergio Córdova’s midseason transfer to Turkey, so track that space closely.
In a similar vein, Vancouver are in talks with midfielders Sebastian Berhalter (out of contract) and Russell Teibert (entering option year) about returning. If the number’s right, both players have a role to play under head coach Vanni Sartini.
Elsewhere, goalkeeper Thomas Hasal’s contract option was declined after Yohei Takaoka locked down the starting role. And the ‘Caps maintain depth at forward by retaining forwards Simon Becher and Levonte Johnson. Picking up defender Tristan Blackmon's contract options ('24 and '25) was a no-brainer, too.
Vancouver's roster currently stands at 19 players, with two players out on loan: midfielder Caio Alexandre at Brazil's Fortaleza EC through December 2023 and forward Déiber Caicedo at Colombia's Junior FC through July 2024.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 10)
- Simon Becher (F)
- Tristan Blackmon (D)
- Isaac Boehmer (GK)
- Levonte Johnson (F)
- Ryan Raposo (D/M)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 10)
- Matteo Campagna (D)
- Kamron Habibullah (M)
- Thomas Hasal (GK)
Ongoing Discussions (Nov. 10)
- Sebastian Berhalter (M)
- Junior Hoilett (F)
- Richie Laryea (D/M)
- Russell Teibert (M)
- Karifa Yao (D)
NOV. 2 – Another winter of change beckons for Toronto FC, who are entering their first full season under head coach John Herdman and general manager Jason Hernandez.
The biggest updates involve two veterans – midfielder Víctor Vázquez and striker CJ Sapong – who had their contract option declined. Amid other moves, including club legend Michael Bradley's retirement, the Reds have just 21 players with guaranteed contracts for 2024. And, at first glance, defense and central midfield are areas of need for a big-spending club that last made the playoffs in 2020.
For now, there's no movement on DP forwards Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi. Transfer speculation surrounds the Italians, who arrived midsummer in 2022 and haven't yet met expectations as the cornerstones of president Bill Manning's vision for TFC.
Toronto earned an MLS-low 22 points in 2023, good for the Wooden Spoon (last place).
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 2)
- Alonso Coello (M)
- Luka Gavran (GK)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 2)
- Themi Antonoglou (D)
- Greg Ranjitsingh (GK)
- Tomás Romero (GK)
- CJ Sapong (F)
- Víctor Vázquez (M)
Out of Contract (Nov. 2)
- Cristián Gutierrez (D)
In Discussions (Nov. 2)
- Aimé Mabika (D)
OCT. 30 – Rebuilding depth is an early theme of Charlotte FC’s offseason after the second-year club declined contract options for six players, including livewire winger McKinze Gaines.
There’s a SuperDraft thread across the contract options CLTFC picked up, as striker Patrick Agyemang, midfielder Ben Bender and defender Andrew Privett are among those returning for 2024.
Both midfielder Derrick Jones and forward Justin Meram are out of contract and eligible for free agency. Charlotte remain in talks with Meram, who has over 350 MLS appearances, about a new deal. Jones, for his part, earned nearly 1,900 minutes this year.
With 26 players under contract for next season, Charlotte will look to build off their first-ever playoff appearance. And while there’s transfer speculation around DP forward Karol Swiderski, the Poland international remains in the Queen City for now.
Contract Options Exercised (Oct. 30)
- Patrick Agyemang (F)
- Ben Bender (M)
- Hamady Diop (D)
- George Marks (GK)
- Andrew Privett (D)
- Nick Scardina (M)
Contract Options Declined (Oct. 30)
- Harrison Afful (D)
- McKinze Gaines (F)
- Chris Hegardt (M)
- Pablo Sisniega (GK)
- Jan Sobocinski (D)
- Adrian Zendejas (GK)
Out of Contract (Oct. 30)
- Derrick Jones (M)
- Justin Meram (F)
OCT. 30 – Following a disappointing season, New York City FC have retained – at least for now – much of their youthful core that fell just short on Decision Day. Twenty-five players are under contract for 2024, including goalkeepers Matt Freese and Luis Barraza after their contract options were exercised.
But there is some turnover after former US international midfielder Alfredo Morales (part of their MLS Cup 2021-winning squad) saw his contract option declined. Left back Braian Cufré, who was on loan from LaLiga's RCD Mallorca, and attacker Matias Pellegrini, a one-time Young Designated Player signing for Inter Miami, also had their contract options declined.
NYCFC have additional loan situations to determine, with midfielder Nicolas Acevedo (to Bahia) and forward Thiago Andrade (to Athletico Paranaense) in Brazil through December 2023. Deals for midfielders Andrés Perea (from Philadelphia Union) and Richard Ledezma (from PSV Eindhoven) are also expiring.
Contract Options Exercised (Oct. 30)
- Luis Barraza (GK)
- Matt Freese (GK)
- Andres Jasson (F)
- Kevin O’Toole (D)
- Gabriel Segal (F)
Contract Options Declined (Oct. 30)
- Nico Benalcazar (D)
- Braian Cufré (D)
- Jonathan Jimenez (F)
- Alfredo Morales (M)
- Samuel Owusu (D)
- Matias Pellegrini (F)
- Stephen Turnbull (D)
OCT. 25 – After a sensational summer, Inter Miami CF have set the stage for roster reinforcements this winter.
The biggest headline is the club has formally declined Josef Martínez's contract option, potentially making way for their long-rumored signing of Luis Suárez. The Uruguayan star, of course, was teammates with Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba on several legendary FC Barcelona squads in the 2010s. Will Josef, an Atlanta United icon, sign elsewhere in MLS after his solitary season in South Florida?
Dixon Arroyo, acquired midseason after Gregore and Jean Mota's long-term injuries, is out of contract. But IMCF are in talks about the defensive midfielder possibly returning. Discussions are also ongoing with defender Leandro González Pirez after his loan to Argentine side River Plate (who hold a purchase option).
Another wrinkle to watch for: U22 Initiative winger Emerson Rodríguez is under contract for 2024, though Liga MX side Santos Laguna (where he's on loan) have a purchase option. Expect an update there since summertime signings Facundo Farías, Tomás Avilés and Diego Gómez occupy U22 slots.
Finland international winger Robert Taylor, who capitalized on Messi's arrival, had his contract option picked up. Ditto for homegrown Ian Fray, who's recovering from another serious knee injury.
Contract Options Exercised (Oct. 25)
- Ian Fray (D/M)
- Cole Jensen (GK)
- Robbie Robinson (F)
- Ryan Sailor (D)
- Lawson Sunderland (M)
- Robert Taylor (M/F)
Contract Options Declined (Oct. 25)
- Josef Martínez (F)
- Jake LaCava (F)
Out of Contract (Oct. 25)
- Victor Ulloa (M)
Ongoing Discussions (Oct. 25)
- Dixon Arroyo (M)
- Leandro González Pirez (D)
