Vela’s MLS move not a sure thing; Report says RBNY, Quakes, Fire await

There’s news on Carlos Vela’s long-anticipated MLS move, and it’s... still really vague.

The wildly-talented and well-traveled Mexican forward is expected to find a new home as soon as January. Now with Real Sociedad, the 26-year-old joined Arsenal at age 16 and has played for Osasuna and West Bromwich Albion as well.

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With 15 goals and 47 caps for El Tri, Vela would be a hot commodity were he interested in a move back to North America. And he is, having spent 10 years apart from his family.

His agent said it’s “not a fact” that Vela will come to MLS, and added that Colorado’s discovery claim makes the move anything but certain. MLS’ “Discovery” process gives teams a chance to “call dibs” on players who join the league.

From FOX Sports:

“Carlos has been playing in Europe for 10 years, far from his family, and that is why the United States is an option. But that doesn’t mean that Carlos Vela’s immediate future is there. It could be now or in two or three years maybe. We don’t know. There is much to consider, but we are of the thought that no doors should be closed. We don’t want to limit Carlos’ options and that is why we are listening.”

MLSSoccer.com cites a LaAficion.com report in saying the Chicago Fire, New York Red Bulls and San Jose Earthquakes are interested in Vela.

Would Vela be an impact player in MLS? Undoubtedly. But would new Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio be okay with his player moving from La Liga to MLS? It’s not going to change Vela’s mind, but an intriguing comparison will be made between the U.S. and Mexico.

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