Robert Lewandowski, one of the most prolific strikers of his generation, is actively considering a move to Major League Soccer. The Chicago Fire have put a two- to three-year deal on the table, and the 37-year-old Polish international is taking his time to decide.

Lewandowski became a free agent after his contract with Barcelona expired in June 2026. He visited Chicago on June 12-13, touring the Fire’s newly established training facility and evaluating the club’s broader project alongside his longtime agent, Pini Zahavi.

What’s on the table

Negotiations between the Fire and Lewandowski’s camp are described as serious but not finalized. The structure being discussed involves either a two- or three-year commitment, with salary estimates ranging from $15 million to $20 million per season including bonuses.

As of June 15, no formal agreement has been reached with any club. He’s still weighing offers from European sides, which means Chicago is competing on two fronts: against rival MLS interest and against the pull of staying in top-flight European football for another season or two.

This isn’t the first time the Fire have come calling, either. There was reported interest during the winter 2026 transfer window, but nothing materialized. The momentum has clearly picked up since Lewandowski hit the open market.

Chicago’s bigger play

Lewandowski isn’t the only marquee name on Chicago’s wish list. The Fire are also in talks with Leon Goretzka, the German midfielder who played alongside Lewandowski at Bayern Munich.

The timing isn’t coincidental. The 2026 World Cup is set to take place across the US, Mexico, and Canada. MLS clubs are positioning themselves to capitalize on the wave of global attention the tournament will bring.

There’s a practical complication, though. MLS salary-cap rules limit the number of Designated Player spots each team can use. Pursuing two high-profile signings simultaneously creates roster-building tension.

What this means for MLS and prospective fans

The MLS-as-retirement-league narrative has been around since David Beckham landed in Los Angeles in 2007. The league has long served as a soft landing for European stars in the twilight of their careers, from Thierry Henry to Andrea Pirlo to more recent arrivals like Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.

Lewandowski fits that mold in some ways. He’s 37. His best years at Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona are behind him. But the player who scored 238 Bundesliga goals and won the FIFA Best Men’s Player award is still a legitimate draw, even at this stage.

The fact that he flew to Chicago, toured the grounds, and is now weighing a multi-year commitment suggests the conversation has moved well past the exploratory phase.