LA Galaxy have won MLS Cup 2024 presented by Audi, meaning it's time for all 29 clubs to enter offseason mode.
This year-end roster tracker sets the stage for 2025. Players who are staying, those who are going and others who are in flux are included.
DEC. 10 – Fresh off their record sixth MLS Cup title, LA are talking with Maya Yoshida about a new deal. Yoshida captained LA in 2024, forming a center-back partnership with Emiro Garcés.
Also, the Galaxy exercised their 2025 contract options for homegrown center back Jalen Neal and midfielder Mark Delgado. And they moved on from veteran Uruguayan defender Martín Cáceres.
Can LA run it back in 2025?
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 10)
- Mark Delgado (M)
- Tucker Lepley (M)
- Jalen Neal (D)
- Isaiah Parente (M)
- Gino Vivi (M)
Contract Option Declined (Dec. 10)
- Martín Cáceres (D)
In Discussions (Dec. 10)
- Brady Scott (GK)
- Maya Yoshida (D)
- Eriq Zavaleta (D)
DEC. 9 – Two days after losing MLS Cup, the Red Bulls have made three year-end roster updates.
The most notable? New York exercised the contract option for Carlos Coronel, their Paraguayan international goalkeeper who's a four-year starter.
Contract Option Exercised (Dec. 9)
- Carlos Coronel (GK)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 9)
- Aidan O’Connor (D)
- Cory Burke (F)
DEC. 9 – Inter Miami sound eager to enhance their roster for next season, building off their first-ever Supporters' Shield title and a record-setting points haul (74).
Look for additions in defense, especially after center back Sergii Kryvtsov and left back Franco Negri had their contract options declined. Also, center back Nicolás Freire's loan from Pumas UNAM will formally expire.
Could two veterans return? Inter Miami are in ongoing negotiations with midfielder Matías Rojas (option declined) and goalkeeper Óscar Ustari (out of contract) about new deals.
And remember: As Inter Miami prepare to compete in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup, they're now led by head coach Javier Mascherano. He famously played for FC Barcelona alongside Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 9)
- Leo Afonso (F)
- Jordi Alba (D)
- Yannick Bright (M)
- CJ dos Santos (GK)
- Ian Fray (D)
- Ryan Sailor (D)
- Marcelo Weigandt (D)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 9)
- Cole Jensen (GK)
- Sergii Kryvtsov (D)
- Franco Negri (D)
- Lawson Sunderland (M)
- Felipe Valencia (M)
Loan Expired (Dec. 9)
- Nicolás Freire (D)
In Discussions (Dec. 9)
- Matías Rojas (M)
- Óscar Ustari (GK)
DEC. 5 – Roster continuity is the name of the game for New York City FC, who have a head coach opening after parting ways with Nick Cushing in late November.
For now, the biggest question is if Maxi Moralez returns. The club legend is out of contract and in discussions about returning for a ninth season. The Argentine midfielder, who turns 38 in February, has played in over 200 matches (all competitions) for NYCFC.
Also, NYCFC exercised the contract option on winger Thiago Andrade. He’s spent the last two seasons out on loan, first with Athletico Paranaense (Brazil) and then Shenzhen Peng City (China).
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 5)
- Thiago Andrade (F)
- Luis Barraza (GK)
- Alex Rando (GK)
- Tomás Romero (GK)
Contract Option Declined (Dec. 5)
- Rio Hope-Gund (D)
In Discussions (Dec. 5)
- Maxi Moralez (M)
DEC. 5 – Fresh off their first-ever Eastern Conference Final appearance, Orlando have minor year-end roster updates.
Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese and midfielders César Araújo and Nico Lodeiro all had their contract options auto-triggered via performance-based metrics.
Additionally, Orlando are talking with fullback Kyle Smith (out of contract) about a new deal. He’s quietly played 181 matches for the club across all competitions.
The Lions also moved on from U22 initiative winger Gastón González. He was on loan with Uruguay’s Nacional and tallied just 0g/2a in 18 MLS matches.
What else could the Lions have in store this winter?
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 5)
- Jack Lynn (F)
- Javier Otero (GK)
- Rafael Santos (D)
- Rodrigo Schlegel (D)
- Thomas Williams (D)
Performance-Based Options Triggered (Dec. 5)
- César Araújo (M)
- Pedro Gallese (GK)
- Nico Lodeiro (M)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 5)
- Gastón González (F)
- Jeorgio Kocevski (M)
- Luca Petrasso (D)
- Abdi Salim (D)
- Carlos Mercado (GK)
Out of Contract (Dec. 5)
- Felipe (M)
In Discussions (Dec. 5)
- Kyle Smith (D)
DEC. 4 – Star striker Raúl Ruidíaz is out of contract and leaving Seattle after seven seasons, opening a Designated Player roster spot.
The Peruvian international departs as the Sounders' all-time leading scorer (86 goals) across all competitions. Additionally, Ruidíaz won two titles with the club: MLS Cup 2019 and the 2022 Concacaf Champions Cup.
Two other headlines: Seattle are in talks with out-of-contract midfielders João Paulo and Albert Rusnák about new deals. João Paulo has played in over 100 matches for the club, while Rusnák (also a DP) was the Sounders' second-leading scorer in 2024 with 10g/16a.
After riding a defense-first foundation to the Western Conference Final, Seattle have top-end roster wiggle room. What does GM Craig Waibel work up as the Sounders prepare to compete in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup?
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 4)
- Reed Baker-Whiting (D/M)
- Jonathan Bell (D)
- Jacob Castro (GK)
- Léo Chú (F)
- Braudilio Rodrigues (F)
- Paul Rothrock (F)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 4)
- Sota Kitahara (M)
- Nathan (D)
- Dylan Teves (M)
Out of Contract (Dec. 4)
- Raúl Ruidíaz (F)
In Discussions (Dec. 4)
- João Paulo (M)
- Albert Rusnák (M)
DEC. 2 – FC Cincinnati had a jam-packed year-end roster release, headlined by triggering the purchase option in Luca Orellano’s contract. The Argentine attacker was on loan from Brazilian side Vasco da Gama, tallying 10g/7a in 33 matches and winning the 2024 AT&T MLS Goal of the Year.
Additionally, Cincy exercised contract options for USMNT center back Miles Robinson and DP d-mid Obinna Nwobodo. Same for wingback Álvaro Barreal, though the 2023 MLS All-Star remains on loan at Brazilian side Cruzeiro through December.
Could wingback Yamil Asad (option declined) and center back Nick Hagglund (out of contract) return? Cincy are in talks with both veterans.
Additionally, loans for strikers Niko Gioacchini (Serie A's Como 1907) and Kevin Kelsy (Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk) have expired. They're returning to their respective parent clubs.
The biggest question remains unanswered, though: What happens with Luciano Acosta? The DP No. 10 and 2023 Landon Donovan MLS MVP, speaking after Cincy's Audi MLS Cup Playoffs elimination, indicated his time with the club may be over. Track this one closely.
Cincy already made a big swing this offseason, acquiring DP striker Kévin Denkey for a reported MLS-record $16.2 million transfer fee. He'll join this winter from Belgian top-flight side Cercle Brugge.
Contract Options Exercised (Dec. 2)
- Álvaro Barreal (D/M)
- Obinna Nwobodo (M)
- Miles Robinson (D)
- Sergio Santos (F)
Loan Purchase Exercised (Dec. 2)
- Luca Orellano (D/M)
Contract Options Declined (Dec. 2)
- London Aghedo (D)
- Joey Akpunonu (D)
- Isaiah Foster (D)
- Kipp Keller (D)
- Arquimides Ordoñez (F)
- Malik Pinto (M)
Loans Expired (Dec. 2)
- Niko Gioacchini (F)
- Kevin Kelsy (F)
In Discussions (Dec. 2)
- Yamil Asad (D/M)
- Nick Hagglund (D)
NOV. 29 – After "winning" the Wooden Spoon in 2024 and allowing an MLS-record 78 goals, the San Jose Earthquakes have started to flip their roster under new head coach/sporting director Bruce Arena.
Goalkeeper William Yarbrough, defender Tanner Beason and striker Jeremy Ebobisse had their 2025 contract option declined, while right back Carlos Akapo and midfielder Jackson Yueill are out of contract. Ebobisse and Yueill will likely be in-demand free agents.
Will others follow them? Could they return on new deals? It's all possible as Arena builds around DPs Cristian Espinoza and Hernán López.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 29)
- Ousseni Bouda (F)
- Daniel (GK)
- Daniel Munie (D)
- Jamar Ricketts (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 29)
- Tanner Beason (D)
- Jeremy Ebobisse (F)
- Jacob Jackson (GK)
- JT Marcinkowski (GK)
- Alfredo Morales (M)
- Will Richmond (F)
- Tommy Thompson (D)
- William Yarbrough (GK)
Out of Contract (Nov. 29)
- Carlos Akapo (D)
- Michael Baldisimo (M)
- Casey Walls (D)
- Jackson Yueill (M)
NOV. 27 – Another winter of roster juggling awaits LAFC, who have just 19 players under contract.
The Black & Gold’s center-back group could look significantly different in 2025, as they’re in discussions with Aaron Long (out of contract), Marlon (option declined) and Jesús Murillo (out of contract) about returning.
Same with their central-midfield core, as Eduard Atuesta is returning to Palmerias after his season-long loan and Ilie Sánchez is out of contract. However, LAFC hope to retain Lewis O’Brien beyond his current loan from Nottingham Forest (expires at the end of 2024).
Could club legend Carlos Vela (option declined) also return? LAFC are in talks with the 2019 Landon Donovan MLS MVP about his future. He made just one substitute appearance (four minutes) after re-signing in September.
Busy times, although co-president/GM John Thorrington is accustomed to navigating these waters.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 27)
- Hugo Lloris (GK)
- David Ochoa (GK)
- Sergi Palencia (D)
- Eddie Segura (D)
- Adrian Wibowo (F)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 27)
- Kei Kamara (F)
- Luis Müller (F)
- Tommy Musto (M)
- Diego Rosales (D)
Out of Contract (Nov. 27)
- Ilie Sánchez (M)
In Discussions (Nov. 27)
- Erik Dueñas (M)
- Aaron Long (D)
- Jesús Murillo (D)
- Marlon (D)
- Carlos Vela (F)
Loans Expired (Nov. 27)
- Eduard Atuesta (M)
- Lewis O’Brien (M)
NOV. 27 – After setting a single-season club record in points (59), RSL retain most of their 2024 roster.
The only major changes: RSL have bid farewell to veterans Maikel Chang and Marcelo Silva, who combined to play over 250 MLS matches. They've also moved on from forward Rubio Rubín, who spent last season on loan at LIGA MX's Querétaro.
Expect a comparatively quiet winter (aside from depth pieces), allowing summer signings Diogo Gonçalves and Dominik Marczuk to further settle.
But there may be a curveball: Does transfer interest pick up in Diego Luna? The 2024 MLS Young Player of the Year was stellar this season, posting 8g/12a in 31 matches.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 27)
- Gavin Beavers (GK)
- Javain Brown (D)
- Noel Caliskan (M)
- Anderson Julio (F)
- Philip Quinton (D)
- Tommy Silva (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 27)
- Kevin Bonilla (D)
- Erik Holt (D)
- Bertin Jacquesson (F)
- Benji Michel (F)
- Jaziel Orozco (D)
- Ilijah Paul (F)
- Delentz Pierre (D)
- Rubio Rubín (F)
Out of Contract (Nov. 27)
- Maikel Chang (M)
- Tomás Gómez (GK)
- Marcelo Silva (D)
In Discussions (Nov. 27)
- Zach Farnsworth (D)
NOV. 27 – Does veteran midfielder Wil Trapp return to Minnesota for a fifth season, or potentially beyond?
The Loons are discussing a new deal with the former US international, who’s played in 321 regular-season matches during his MLS career.
Another big question: After a season-defining summer transfer window, what signings do Minnesota United envision this winter?
That answer will determine the Loons’ trajectory under head coach Eric Ramsay, having already brought in DPs Kelvin Yeboah and Joaquín Pereyra.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 27)
- Hassani Dotson (M)
- Morris Duggan (D)
- Bongokuhle Hlongwane (M)
- Anthony Markanich Jr. (D)
- Devin Padelford (D)
- Tani Oluwaseyi (F)
- Sam Shashoua (M)
- Alec Smir (GK)
- Dayne St. Clair (GK)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 27)
- Hugo Bacharach (D)
- Derek Dodson (D)
- Clint Irwin (GK)
- Moses Nyeman (M)
- Patrick Weah (F)
Out of Contract (Nov. 27)
- Franco Fragapane (M)
- Zarek Valentin (D)
In Discussions (Nov. 27)
- Wil Trapp (M)
NOV. 27 – From head coach Chris Armas’ first season, Colorado have plenty to hang their hat on. Now, how do they improve?
That’s the offseason mandate for the Rapids, who remain in talks with center back Lalas Abubakar (option declined) and forward Jonathan Lewis (out of contract) about returning. Both players initially joined Colorado in 2019.
To drill the point home: Colorado have a solid foundation… TBD if they can take the next step.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 27)
- Calvin Harris (F)
- Nate Jones (D)
- Oliver Larraz (M)
- Keegan Rosenberry (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 27)
- Ethan Bandré (GK)
- Rémi Cabral (M)
In Discussions (Nov. 27)
- Lalas Abubakar (D)
- Sebastian Anderson (D)
- Michael Edwards (D)
- Jonathan Lewis (F)
Nov. 27 – Two days after parting ways with head coach Vanni Sartini, Vancouver started their year-end roster process.
That’s somewhat open-ended because the Whitecaps remain in discussions with several players, including forward Fafà Picault (option declined), midfielder Alessandro Schöpf (option declined) and wingback Ryan Raposo (out of contract).
Picault joined Vancouver last winter as a free agent, finishing as their third-leading goalscorer with 9g/5a. Schöpf has 65 appearances since signing in the summer of 2022. Raposo enjoyed a career-best year in 2024, tallying 3g/4a.
How much will Sartini’s replacement influence those decisions and the roster-building process?
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 27)
- Isaac Boehmer (GK)
- Déiber Caicedo (F)
- Yohei Takaoka (GK)
Contract Option Declined (Nov. 27)
- Levonte Johnson (F)
In Discussions (Nov. 27)
- Joe Bendik (GK)
- J.C. Ngando (M)
- Fafà Picault (F)
- Ralph Priso (M)
- Ryan Raposo (M)
- Alessandro Schöpf (M)
NOV. 27 – Two players from Columbus’ MLS Cup 2023-winning team are moving on: wingback Yaw Yeboah and midfielder Alexandru Matan.
Yeboah departs with 4g/12a in 74 games, while Matan had 5g/14a in 93 games.
What reinforcements does GM Issa Tall have in mind, either from within or externally? The Crew are always scanning for ways to improve their roster.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 27)
- Nicholas Hagen (GK)
- AZ Jackson (M)
- Christian Ramírez (F)
- Abraham Romero (GK)
- Jacen Russell-Rowe (F)
- Patrick Schulte (GK)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 27)
- Keegan Hughes (D)
- Yaw Yeboah (D)
Out of Contract (Nov. 27)
- Alexandru Matan (M)
In Discussions (Nov. 27)
- Evan Bush (GK)
NOV. 26 – The biggest question around Philadelphia is who replaces head coach Jim Curtin, whose 11-year run is over.
But the roster also needs some sorting; the Union are in discussions with midfielder Alejandro Bedoya (out of contract), center back Jack Elliott (option declined) and center back Brandan Craig (option declined).
Bedoya is entering his age-38 season and is approaching 250 regular-season appearances with the Union. Elliott, a 2017 MLS SuperDraft pick, has started for Philadelphia the past eight seasons. Craig spent last season on loan with USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive.
Additionally, midfielder Leon Flach and striker Sam Adeniran are out of contract. Flach was a key starter in the club’s 2020 Supporters’ Shield-winning group, while Adeniran didn’t score following a midseason trade with St. Louis.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 26)
- Isaiah LeFlore (D)
- Mikael Uhre (F)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 26)
- Jamir Berdecio (D)
- Matthew Real (D)
- Joaquín Torres (M)
Out of Contract (Nov. 26)
- Sam Adeniran (F)
- Leon Flach (M)
In Discussions (Nov. 26)
- Alejandro Bedoya (M)
- Brandan Craig (D)
- Jack Elliott (D)
NOV. 26 – Atlanta United are expected to be extremely busy this winter, and that’s probably understating it.
A new head coach, a new general manager, two DPs, several U22s, TAM-level signing(s) and intra-league moves are all on the table.
For now, the Five Stripes are bringing back 40-year-old goalkeeper Brad Guzan and are in talks to retain defender Ronald Hernández and striker Jamal Thiaré. Interim head coach Rob Valentino also confirmed he's departing the club.
Buckle up, folks. The updates will come fast and furious.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 26)
- Ajani Fortune (M)
- Brad Guzan (GK)
- Efraín Morales (D)
- Santiago Sosa (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 26)
- Erik Centeno (D)
- Nick Firmino (M)
- Franco Ibarra (M)
In Discussions (Nov. 26)
- Ronald Hernández (D)
- Jamal Thiaré (F)
- Tyler Wolff (F)
Loan Expired (Nov. 26)
- Daniel Ríos (F)
Retiring (Nov. 26)
- Dax McCarty (M)
- Quentin Westberg (GK)
NOV. 25 – Is a back-line makeover coming to New England? It sure seems like it.
After conceding 74 goals this season (third-most in league history), the Revs have just six defenders under contract. Center backs Xavier Arreaga, Jonathan Mensah and Tim Parker are no longer on the books. Same for fullback Nick Lima.
New England's other big decision: declining the 2025 contract option for Dylan Borrero. The Colombian international was a U22 Initiative player, tallying 6g/6a in 37 matches since arriving from Brazilian side Atlético Mineiro. He tore his ACL in 2023 before returning last April.
Expect plenty of roster movement this winter, especially with salary-cap space opened up after a 14th-place Eastern Conference finish in 2024.
Contract Options Exercised/Re-Signed (Nov. 25)
- Emmanuel Boateng (M)
- Brandon Bye (D)
- Earl Edwards Jr. (GK)
- Andrew Farrell (D)
- Will Sands (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 25)
- Xavier Arreaga (D)
- Joshua Bolma (F)
- Dylan Borrero (F)
- Nacho Gil (M)
- Tommy McNamara (M)
- Jonathan Mensah (D)
Out of Contract (Nov. 25)
- Nick Lima (D)
- Tim Parker (D)
- Damian Rivera (F)
- Ryan Spaulding (D)
- Bobby Wood (F)
NOV. 21 – Charlotte FC have retained most of their 2024 roster, but there's one notable exit: Pep Biel.
The Crown didn't pick up the playmaker's purchase option, ending his half-season loan from Greek powerhouse Olympiacos. Biel, who occupied a Designated Player roster slot, produced 2g/3a in 11 matches (all competitions) after arriving in mid-August.
While reports indicate Biel could return on a non-DP deal, the expectation is Charlotte pursue a high-profile No. 10. This summer, they came close to acquiring Calvin Stengs from Eredivisie club Feyenoord and inquired about Newcastle United star Miguel Almirón.
Is a new star coming to the Queen City?
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 21)
- Patrick Agyemang (F)
- Ben Bender (M)
- Brandon Cambridge (M)
- Hamady Diop (D)
- Jahlane Forbes (D)
- George Marks (GK)
- Andrew Privett (D)
- Nicholas Scardina (M)
- Tyger Smalls (F)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 21)
- Jaylin Lindsey (D)
- Jamie Paterson (F)
- Junior Urso (M)
Loan Expired (Nov. 21)
- Pep Biel (M)
NOV. 21 – Star striker Josef Martínez had his 2025 contract option declined by CF Montréal, making the 2018 Landon Donovan MLS MVP a free agent.
Martínez was Montréal's leading scorer in 2024, tallying 11g/3a in 23 games as they returned to the playoffs under first-year head coach Laurent Courtois.
Will the Venezuelan international stay within MLS and find a fourth team in as many years? He starred for Atlanta United from 2017-22, winning MLS Cup and a Golden Boot, then played for Inter Miami (2023) and Montréal (2024).
Montréal also moved on from their sole Designated Player, Victor Wanyama, leaving them with 16 players under contract. The Kenyan midfielder joined Montréal in 2020 from Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, but played just 401 minutes last season.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 21)
- Nathan Saliba (M)
- Jules-Anthony Vilsaint (F)
In Negotiations (Nov. 21)
- Ousman Jabang (D/M)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 21)
- Gabriele Corbo (D)
- Grayson Doody (D)
- Raheem Edwards (D)
- Ilias Iliadis (M)
- Lassi Lappalainen (M)
- Josef Martínez (F)
- Matteo Schiavoni (M)
- Róbert Thorkelsson (D)
- Rida Zouhir (M)
Out of Contract (Nov. 21)
- Logan Ketterer (GK)
- Victor Wanyama (M)
Loan Expired (Nov. 21)
- Joaquín Sosa (D)
NOV. 14 – It's the end of an era at Sporting Kansas City, with defender Andreu Fontàs, goalkeeper Tim Melia, forward Johnny Russell and midfielder Rémi Walter all out of contract and not returning to the club.
Russell departs with 60g/40a in 196 appearances, cementing his club legend status. The Scotsman and former Sporting KC captain originally arrived in 2018 after playing for Derby County.
Melia, arguably the best penalty-kick shot-stopper in league history, joined Sporting KC in 2015 and won two US Open Cup titles. The 38-year-old spent a decade as their starter.
These decisions set up a club-defining offseason, with SKC's roster currently at 18 players. Which high-impact signings arrive this winter?
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 14)
- Stephen Afrifa (F)
- William Agada (F)
- Zorhan Bassong (D/M)
- Logan Ndenbe (D)
- Memo Rodríguez (M)
- Ryan Schewe (GK)
- Robert Voloder (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 14)
- Robert Castellanos (D)
- Ozzie Cisneros (M)
- Danny Flores (M)
- Chris Rindov (D)
Out of Contract (Nov. 14)
- Andreu Fontàs (D)
- Tim Melia (GK)
- Johnny Russell (F)
- Rémi Walter (M)
NOV. 12 – FC Dallas enter the offseason with 24 players under contract, though that number could soon increase.
They're in talks with Ruan and midfielder Asier Illarramendi about new deals. Same goes for midfielder Patrickson Delgado, who was on loan from Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle with a purchase option.
Roster decisions aside, Dallas need to determine if interim coach Peter Luccin gets the full-time job. Also, will transfer rumors resume around forwards Jesús Ferreira and Alan Velasco?
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 12)
- Antonio Carrera (GK)
- Herbert Endeley (F)
- Logan Farrington (F)
- Tsiki Ntsabeleng (M)
- Sebastien Ibeagha (D)
- Sam Junqua (D)
- Nkosi Tafari (D)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 12)
- Liam Fraser (M)
- Omar Gonzalez (D)
- Dante Sealy (F)
- Ema Twumasi (D)
- Eugene Ansah (F)
- Isaiah Parker (F)
- Amet Korça (D)
- Malik Henry-Scott (F)
In Discussions (Nov. 12)
- Patrickson Delgado (M)
- Asier Illarramendi (M)
- Ruan (D)
- Jimmy Maurer (GK)
NOV. 6 – In headline-grabbing news, the Houston Dynamo's Héctor Herrera era is over after they declined his 2025 contract option.
The Mexican star joined Houston midway through the 2022 season after playing for LaLiga side Atlético Madrid. He tallied 5g/21a in 62 matches, carrying the Dynamo's midfield and helping them win the 2023 US Open Cup title.
With this decision, Houston open a Designated Player spot and move on from their captain. The 34-year-old also earned two MLS All-Star nods and a 2023 MLS Best XI spot.
On Nov. 27, Houston declined 2025 contract options for goalkeeper Steve Clark, midfielder Latif Blessing and defender Daniel Steres after discussions about returning. Clark was a three-year starter.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 6)
- Franco Escobar (D)
- Sebastian Kowalczyk (M)
- Micael (D)
- Gabe Segal (F)
- Andrew Tarbell (GK)^
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 6)
- Latif Blessing (M)^
- Steve Clark (GK)^
- Ján Greguš (M)
- Héctor Herrera (M)
- Júnior Moreno (M)
- Tate Schmitt (D)^
- Brad Smith (D)
- Daniel Steres (D)^
- Ousmane Sylla (F)
- Xavier Valdez (GK)
Out of Contract (Nov. 6)
- McKinze Gaines (F)
^ Post-announcement decision
NOV. 5 – Austin FC declined contract options for winger Ethan Finlay, center back Matt Hedges and midfielder Alex Ring. All three players are 33 or older and have combined to play in 920 MLS matches.
Meanwhile, midfielder Dani Pereira's 2025 contract option was picked up. The Venezuelan international and former SuperDraft No. 1 overall selection is entering his fifth professional season.
The bigger picture? Austin have just 21 players under contract and recently named Nico Estévez head coach, officially starting their post-Josh Wolff era.
Expect the club to be active in the winter transfer market, building off a summer window that saw DP winger Osman Bukari, right back Mikkel Desler and center back Oleksandr Svatok arrive from European teams.
Contract Options Exercised (Nov. 5)
- Jimmy Farkarlun (F)
- Dani Pereira (M)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 5)
- Matt Bersano (GK)
- Ethan Finlay (F)
- Matt Hedges (D)
- Alex Ring (M)
- Jhojan Valencia (M)
In Discussions (Nov. 5)
- Hector Jimenez (D)
NOV. 1 – Much of the Portland Timbers' 2024 roster is returning, at least for now, after snapping a two-year postseason absence.
That includes club legend Diego Chara, who recently signed a contract extension. Conversely, striker Mason Toye and midfielder Marvin Loría had their contract options declined.
Up above, we say "at least for now" because there's an ongoing contract saga with star midfielder Evander. The Brazilian No. 10 wants a deal that reflects his Landon Donovan MLS MVP finalist season of 15g/19a in 28 matches.
Elsewhere? A U22 Initiative attacker and midfielder are reportedly both offseason targets.
Contract Option Exercised (Nov. 1)
- Hunter Sulte (GK)
Contract Options Declined (Nov. 1)
- Tega Ikoba (F)
- Marvin Loría (M)
- Mason Toye (F)
OCT. 28 – Nashville SC fully enter the B.J. Callaghan era in 2025, moving forward from a midseason coaching change and missing the playoffs for the first time in their five-year history.
Nashville should have several new central midfielders next season, with Aníbal Godoy, Dru Yearwood and more departing the club. Center-back depth could look different, too, though they're in active discussions about Josh Bauer returning.
The club brings back all three DPs: Hany Mukhtar, Sam Surridge and Walker Zimmerman. Canadian international Jacob Shaffelburg is another key piece.
Contract Options Exercised (Oct. 28)
- Julian Gaines (D)
- Lukas MacNaughton (D)
Contract Options Declined (Oct. 28)
- Forster Ajago (F)
- Tah Brian Anunga (M)
- Aníbal Godoy (M)
- Ben Martino (GK)
- Amar Sejdić (M)
- Joey Skinner (D)
Out of Contract (Oct. 28)
- Josh Bauer (D)
- Brent Kallman (D)
- Dru Yearwood (M)
OCT. 28 – There's little turnover (so far) for Toronto FC, who ended head coach John Herdman's first season outside the playoff picture looking in. They last qualified in 2020.
But that shouldn't rule out bigger moves in the months ahead, especially as Toronto seek to fine-tune their club identity. Namely, will DP forward Lorenzo Insigne be back?
On Nov. 27, after initial discussions, the club declined 2025 contract options for defender Luke Singh and striker Prince Owusu.
Contract Options Exercised (Oct. 28)
- Alonso Coello (M)
- Kobe Franklin (D)
- Luka Gavran (GK)
- Deandre Kerr (F)
- Kevin Long (D)
- Tyrese Spicer (F)
- Kosi Thompson (M)
Contract Options Declined (Oct. 28)
- Aimé Mabika (D)
- Shane O'Neill (D)
- Prince Owusu (F)^
- Greg Ranjitsingh (GK)
- Brandon Servania (M)
- Luke Singh (D)^
^ Post-announcement decision
OCT. 25 – After some Decision Day heartbreak ensured a fifth-straight season of playoff-less soccer, D.C. United have cleared the decks.
The Black-and-Red have just 17 players on their roster. They declined contract options for Alex Bono and Tyler Miller, leaving them with zero goalkeepers. Defense is a clear area of need, having allowed 70 goals in 2024 (third-most in MLS).
D.C. bring back reigning Golden Boot presented by Audi winner Christian Benteke, plus DP midfielders Mateusz Klich and Matti Peltola. Who joins them?
Contract Options Exercised (Oct. 25)
- Aaron Herrera (D)
- Garrison Tubbs (D)
Contract Options Declined (Oct. 25)
- Alex Bono (GK)
- Nathan Crockford (GK)
- Cristian Dájome (F)
- Jeremy Garay (D)
- Christopher McVey (D)
- Tyler Miller (GK)
- Martín Rodríguez (M)
- Hayden Sargis (D)
- Luis Zamudio (GK)
Out of Contract (Oct. 25)
- Russell Canouse (M)
- Pedro Santos (D)
OCT. 22 – A busy winter awaits Chicago, where Gregg Berhalter takes over as director of football and head coach.
The former USMNT boss has given the Fire more roster flexibility, highlighted by center back Rafael Czichos, midfielder Fabian Herbers and winger Ariel Lassiter not being offered a new deal. Additionally, defender Allan Arigoni will return to Swiss partner club FC Lugano after his season-long loan.
How many new players does Berhalter sign this winter, whether from within MLS or abroad? Do they land a new DP after mutually parting ways with midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri in mid-August?
As this new era begins, Chicago eye their first playoffs since 2017.
Contract Options Exercised (Oct. 22)
- Jonathan Dean (D)
- Jeff Gal (GK)
Out of Contract (Oct. 22)
- Rafael Czichos (D)
- Fabian Herbers (M)
- Ariel Lassiter (M)
- Spencer Richey (GK)
Loan Expiration (Oct. 22)
- Allan Arigoni (D)
In Discussions (Oct. 22)
- Javier Casas (M)
- Wyatt Omsberg (D)
OCT. 22 – After a busy summer transfer window, St. Louis exercised the contract option for seven players and enter next season with 27 players on guaranteed deals.
Midfielders Chris Durkin and Indiana Vassilev are returning, joining a core that includes goalkeeper Roman Bürki, midfielders Marcel Hartel, Eduard Löwen and Cedric Teuchert, and striker João Klauss.
Priority No. 1 for CITY SC is finding a new head coach, potentially keeping interim John Hackworth in the position. The club finished 12th in the West, a significant slide from their record-setting, conference-topping expansion season in 2023.
Contract Options Exercised (Oct. 22)
- Chris Durkin (M)
- Hosei Kijima (M)
- Ben Lundt (GK)
- Jay Reid (D)
- Akil Watts (M)
- Michael Wentzel (D)
- Indiana Vassilev (M)
Contract Option Declined (Oct. 22)
- John Klein (M)
Ongoing Discussions (Oct. 22)
- Jake Nerwinski (D)
