Thomas Muller transfer off? LAFC deal hits a snag as Bayern Munich legend rejects two MLS clubs despite deciding on USA move

Muller's proposed move to MLS has reportedly stalled, with talks between the Bayern Munich veteran and Californian club LAFC still not finalised, according to Bild. Muller intends to continue his career in the United States, but he has apparently turned down advances from Chicago Fire and another unidentified MLS club because MLS rules forbid players from jointly negotiating with multiple teams.

The 35-year-old is contracted with Bayern Munich until July 2025 and will leave the club after the Club World Cup. The forward appeared in 30 Bundesliga games during the 2024-25 season, scoring once and assisting four times. The unique single-entity structure of MLS necessitates league approval and requires clubs to coordinate negotiations, which has contributed to the delay, though his next destination is likely to be disclosed next month.

The MLS transfer rules forbid open negotiations with more than one team at a time, a condition that directly affects Muller's capacity to look into other possible destinations in the league. With talks with LAFC going on, Muller's rejection of Chicago Fire resulted from this rule.

Muller will now be seen in action in the Club World Cup, where he will don the Bayern Munich jersey as a player for one last time. His next destination is likely to come after that, as Bayern reportedly prefer an agreement with LAFC and are willing to assist in closing the deal. If negotiations fall short, though, other MLS teams could re-enter the contest once LAFC is formally out.