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The 2026 World Cup didn’t just crown a new champion—it kicked off a wild storm of transfer rumors in the MLS. With the whole world watching, American clubs are looking to cash in on the World Cup buzz, targeting several breakout stars who could shake up the league in a matter of weeks.
Elijah Just, Emam Ashour, and Vozinha top the list of players who, after their World Cup heroics, have become hot commodities for North American franchises. But how close are they to landing in Major League Soccer? And who else might join the post-World Cup frenzy?
Elijah Just: From World Cup Sensation to Record-Breaking Transfer
Elijah Just became a scout’s dream after his jaw-dropping World Cup run with New Zealand. The 26-year-old winger, fresh off a solid season with Scotland’s Motherwell, bagged three goals at the tournament and saw his market value skyrocket from $1.5 million to $2.5 million in just four months.
He’s been linked to MLS teams like D.C. United and St. Louis CITY SC, but all signs point to an immediate move to Swansea City in England’s Championship. The transfer is set to smash Motherwell’s all-time sales record (topping $4.7 million) and looks all but done. Still, MLS clubs aren’t giving up—Just is the kind of international game-changer teams crave, without breaking the bank.
Emam Ashour: The Versatile Egyptian Turning MLS Heads
Another name echoing through MLS hallways is Emam Ashour. The Al Ahly winger was a key piece in Egypt’s World Cup attack, showing off his insane versatility: he can play left wing, as a playmaker, or as an attacking midfielder. His market value is around $4 million, but the Egyptian club has already turned down offers up to $9.3 million—so he won’t be leaving easily.
There were whispers of interest from Columbus Crew, but nothing official has landed on the table. Al Ahly is standing firm, and for now, Ashour is staying in Africa. But hey, the transfer window is still open, and media pressure could flip the script at any moment.
Vozinha: Veteran Keeper, No Interest in Being a Marketing Gimmick
Veteran Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha was another hot name for Inter Miami. At 40 years old and valued at just $50,000, Vozinha made it clear he won’t sign just to be a “marketing signing.” “I won’t be a marketing signing,” he declared after the World Cup.
MLS interest in Vozinha is all about experience and leadership between the posts, but the man himself has set his terms: he’ll only come if the sporting project is right. For now, his future is up in the air.
Mohamed Salah and Neymar Jr.: The Superstars Tempting MLS
When it comes to blockbuster moves, few names get fans buzzing like Mohamed Salah and Neymar Jr.. The Egyptian star, after parting ways with Liverpool, is close to signing a one-year deal with Turkey’s Beşiktaş for a base salary of $10 million plus bonuses. MLS clubs have been watching, but for now, his arrival seems off the table. “We still don’t know where Mohamed will play next season, but we’ll know very soon,” said his agent Ramy Abbas Issa.
Meanwhile, Neymar Jr. returned to Santos on July 17, with his contract running through December 2026. There have been exploratory talks with MLS (especially FC Cincinnati), but nothing concrete. The Brazilian superstar’s future will depend on Santos’ boardroom decisions—and whether he wants one last big payday outside Brazil.
Pulisic and Reyna: Could USMNT Stars Come Home?
American fans are also dreaming of a golden homecoming for two of their biggest stars: Christian Pulisic and Gio Reyna. Both are still in Europe and there are no formal talks, but the rumor mill is churning about a big-money return. Pulisic, the face of the USMNT, could boost his brand in MLS, while Reyna needs minutes and consistency—something the domestic league could offer right away.
Why Is MLS Chasing World Cup Stars?
The Major League Soccer strategy is crystal clear: ride the World Cup wave to attract international talent and supercharge both commercial and sporting growth. Bringing in players with World Cup experience doesn’t just raise the level of play—it also sends ticket sales, jersey sales, and TV rights through the roof.
Plus, the league wants to position itself as a top destination for players looking for new challenges outside Europe or South America, offering financial stability and a life away from the relentless spotlight of traditional big leagues.
The Post-World Cup Transfer Effect in MLS
Historically, MLS has used major international tournaments to beef up its rosters. After the 2026 World Cup, the expectation is that at least two or three big names will land in the league before the transfer window slams shut. Elijah Just, Emam Ashour, and Vozinha are just the tip of the iceberg—expect more surprises in the coming weeks.
World Cup stars don’t just raise the soccer bar—they also change the global perception of MLS as a league that can compete for top international talent.
Frequently Asked Questions About World Cup Transfers to MLS
Which 2026 World Cup players are closest to joining MLS?
Right now, Elijah Just and Emam Ashour are the most linked, though Just looks set for Swansea City and Ashour is staying at Al Ahly. Vozinha has also been connected to Inter Miami, but no deals are done yet.
Will Mohamed Salah or Neymar Jr. play in MLS in 2026?
Currently, Salah is close to signing with Beşiktaş and Neymar Jr. is still at Santos. There are no formal MLS offers for either, but the interest is real—they could be targets in the near future.
Why does MLS want to sign World Cup stars?
The league wants to capitalize on the World Cup buzz, boost its competitive level, and attract more fans and international sponsors.
Who else could be on MLS’s radar after the World Cup?
Besides the names mentioned, there’s always a chance for new rumors as the transfer window rolls on and clubs tweak their rosters after the tournament.
