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

Real Sociedad de Futbol v Elche FC - La Liga

SAN SEBASTIAN, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 28: Carlos Vela Garrido of Real Sociedad celebrates after scoring his team’s third goal during the La Liga match between Real Socided and Elche FC at Estadio Anoeta on November 28, 2014 in San Sebastian, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

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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.

[ MORE: Ineligible players could see Real Madrid bounced from Copa del Rey ]

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.

Follow @NicholasMendola