Orlando City and USMNT striker Duncan McGuire to end transfer rumors with new long-term deal, pay raise

After months of speculation, Duncan McGuire's future is finally set. The 23-year-old striker has agreed in principle to an extension with Orlando City through 2027 with an option for 2028. The two sides are still waiting on approval from the league, sources confirmed to GOAL, and the deal is not yet official.

According to sources, Orlando were determined to keep McGuire this summer and the timing of the MLS and European transfer windows complicated any potential move abroad. The MLS transfer window is set to close Wednesday night, while the European window closes on Aug. 30 and, as a result, Orlando was particularly unwilling to sell this month due to the inability to secure a replacement.

With Orlando determined to keep hold of their star striker, McGuire has opted to sign a new deal that will see him earn a significant pay raise. McGuire has been earning a salary of $99,716, according to the MLSPA, but his new contract will see him earn designated player-level money, sources confirmed to GOAL, although Orlando City could buy his deal down to avoid DP classification.

GiveMeSport was the first to report the news.

In February, McGuire was on the verge of a move to Blackburn Rovers in England's Championship, only for the deal to fall through due to an administrative error - Blackburn reportedly hit the wrong button when processing his transfer paperwork. As a result, McGuire had to return to Orlando City, a team that had already signed Luis Muriel in anticipation of his departure.

Despite this setback, McGuire remained a crucial part of Orlando's squad, netting seven goals in 17 starts. His perseverance has now been rewarded with a new contract.

Considering Muriel's struggles this season, scoring just three goals in 24 matches, McGuire's new deal should assure him a featured role up top. The Omaha native has scored 20 league goals since being drafted No. 6 in the 2023 MLS SuperDraft.

Additionally, McGuire was a member of the U.S. Olympic squad this summer and earned his first senior team cap in January.

McGuire was in a contract standoff with Orlando, previously rejecting deals from the club earlier this summer. He reportedly had interest from clubs in England, the Netherlands and Germany prior to deciding to stay in MLS.

McGuire and Orlando City SC will resume MLS play on Aug. 24 when they travel to Sporting Kansas City.