MLS commissioner Don Garber has identified Mohamed Salah as a priority target for Major League Soccer, characterizing the Liverpool forward as a strong strategic fit for the league’s global growth objectives.

At the SBJ Business of Soccer event in Atlanta, Garber highlighted Salah’s international profile and indicated that MLS would be prepared to act if the player chose to move to the United States. He stated that he had previously been limited in what he could say about Salah’s future, but that the situation changed once it became apparent the player would leave Liverpool.

Garber argued that MLS now provides a platform combining competitive play, commercial upside, and lifestyle advantages that can appeal to high-profile players in the later stages of their careers. He presented MLS as a credible alternative to the Saudi Pro League, which has been investing heavily to attract established European stars.

Salah’s expected exit from Liverpool as a free agent has generated significant interest. Although he has one year remaining on his contract, he and the club have agreed that he will depart at the end of the season, allowing him to negotiate without a transfer fee. Saudi club Al Ittihad, previously linked with Salah, is reported to be preparing a renewed effort to sign him.

MLS has recent precedent for attracting elite talent. The league has signed Lionel Messi and other prominent European veterans, and has recently added Antoine Griezmann to Orlando City. Garber has publicly encouraged Salah to consult with players such as Messi and Thomas Müller regarding their experiences in MLS, using them as case studies of how established stars can benefit both on the field and commercially in the United States.

Interest within MLS is not uniform. Sources indicate that San Diego FC, whose majority owner is Egyptian businessman Sir Mohamed Mansour, is not currently pursuing Salah. The Chicago Fire, despite a history of targeting high-profile names, are also not in the mix at this stage. LAFC declined to comment; the club may face short-term constraints due to its existing roster and Designated Player configuration, though it retains the option to adjust that structure later in the summer.

The MLS summer transfer window runs from July 13 to September 2, defining the operational timeframe in which MLS clubs can formalize any approach and assess Salah’s willingness to consider a move to the United States.