Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga to quit MLS? LAFC's talisman says 'objective' is to return Europe or France this offseason

After winning the 2022 MLS Cup and following it up with a campaign that saw him land the 2023 MLS Golden Boot and lead the Black and Gold to yet another Cup win, Bouanga's stock was among the highest across MLS. Now, however, with the January transfer window open, the Gabon international has announced his intention to leave MLS and return to France or another club in Europe.

“My objective is clear and stated: I would like to come back and play in France or in a European club," he told Ouest France.

Following their 2-1 loss to the Columbus Crew in MLS Cup, LAFC executive John Thorington said the club had no plans of parting company with him, adding that a "hugely expensive" fee would be required if he were to leave.

“He's under contract. He's the top goalscorer in the league, a huge part of how we play,” Thorington told MLS on December 8. “So our plan is absolutely he's under contract for another few years and that he’ll be back. We never know what may happen, but it's going to be a hugely, hugely expensive transfer fee if he's not here next year.”

LAFC signed the Gabon winger from Ligue 1 side AS Saint-Etienne for $5 million in the summer of 2022, and it's likely that the Black and Gold will not even consider double the fee after his performances of late.

Potential suitors for the Gabon striker will flock at the chance to sign him this January, but LAFC are apparently set to hold their feet on the ground at the moment. MLS preseason begins mid-January, and Bouanga will report for his club unless a deal materialises.