Sporting Kansas City has emerged as the front-runner to sign Mohamed Salah should the Egyptian forward move to Major League Soccer, according to reports from The Athletic. While Salah prefers to remain in Europe following his departure from Liverpool, sources indicate he is open to an MLS move, placing Sporting KC in pole position among interested American clubs despite strong competition from the Saudi Pro League.
Sporting KC’s Strategic Pursuit of Mohamed Salah
The pursuit of the 34-year-old star marks a significant shift in ambition for Sporting Kansas City. Under new majority owner Peter Mallouk, the club is signaling a departure from its recent past as it navigates a transitional period. Mallouk, the son of Egyptian immigrants, is overseeing an effort to revitalize the roster following the exit of long-time head coach and chief soccer officer Peter Vermes.
Internal sources emphasize that any deal for Salah remains a longshot. The primary hurdle involves the player’s preference to continue his career in Europe, coupled with aggressive interest from Saudi Arabian clubs. Salah’s status became a major talking point following Egypt’s elimination from the World Cup at the hands of Argentina. With his tenure at Liverpool—which included a career-best 2024-25 season of 29 goals and 18 assists—now concluded, the forward is evaluating his next move.
Targeting High-Value Transfers: Gboho and Luiz
Salah is not the only target in Sporting Kansas City’s aggressive summer recruitment plan. The club is actively pursuing Toulouse winger Yann Gboho and Olympiacos winger Andre Luiz, with potential transfer fees for either player estimated in the $18–20 million range. According to The Athletic, negotiations for the 24-year-old Brazilian, Andre Luiz, are currently more advanced than those for Gboho.
These potential acquisitions represent a significant financial commitment. For context, Andre Luiz joined Olympiacos in January for a reported $7 million; a move to Kansas City could see his valuation nearly triple. Gboho, 25, is coming off a breakout season in France with 10 goals and three assists. These moves align with a public promise from ownership to improve the team significantly by the league’s “sprint season.”
Roster Evolution Under Rapha Wicky
Head coach Rapha Wicky is managing a team currently sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference with 11 points from 14 matches. The club’s strategy involves utilizing its third Designated Player (DP) slot, which remains open. Currently, the team’s DP spots are occupied by Dejan Joveljic and Manu Garcia.
The club’s performance showed signs of improvement leading into the MLS World Cup break. By targeting high-impact players like Salah, Gboho, or Luiz, the front office is attempting to accelerate the transition from the Vermes era. The focus remains on building an infrastructure capable of competing.
When tracking major league transfers, look at the Designated Player (DP) availability. MLS clubs often wait for the summer window to utilize these slots, allowing them to sign high-earning international talent who have finished their European club seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mohamed Salah officially joining Sporting Kansas City?
No. While Sporting KC is the leading MLS suitor, sources stress that a move is considered a longshot. Salah’s primary preference is to remain in Europe, and he faces significant interest from the Saudi Pro League.
Why is Sporting KC targeting Andre Luiz and Yann Gboho?
The club is looking to increase its spending and overall ambition to improve its standing in the Western Conference. Both players are viewed as high-impact signings, with potential transfer fees between $18 million and $20 million.
How many Designated Player spots does Sporting KC have open?
The club currently has two DPs, Dejan Joveljic and Manu Garcia, and has the ability to add a third during the current transfer window.
What do you think of Sporting KC’s aggressive pursuit of top-tier international talent? Join the conversation in the comments section below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on MLS transfer movements.
