Gregg Berhalter, head coach of the Chicago Fire, has confirmed the MLS club's interest in signing free-agent Robert Lewandowski ahead of the 2026 season.
The Polish striker, 37, left Barcelona at the end of the 2025–26 season after his contract expired. The departure marks the end of a successful stint in Catalonia where he scored 120 goals in 193 appearances and helped the club retain their La Liga title.
Lewandowski's Final Season at Barcelona
Lewandowski's influence diminished in his final season at Barcelona. He scored 42 times across all competitions the previous year, but managed only 19 goals this season—his lowest goalscoring tally since the 2010–11 season.
The veteran saw almost 1,000 fewer minutes in La Liga as Ferran Torres was often preferred in the starting lineup. Fitness setbacks and niggling injuries forced manager Hansi Flick to carefully manage his workload.
Despite the reduced output, Lewandowski finishes his Barcelona career with three La Liga titles and an impressive legacy. He notched 27 Pichichi Trophy goals last term before this season's decline.
Berhalter Confirms Chicago's Interest
"I can speak freely because he is no longer a Barcelona player, and he is someone we want to sign," Berhalter stated in comments collected by Polish media outlets via MARCA.
Talks between the MLS franchise and Lewandowski's entourage started in December but intensified in recent weeks as it became clear the striker wouldn't remain at Barcelona.
"We have spoken with Robert Lewandowski and with the people who represent him. I am convinced that a player of his level has other offers on the table, but our communication has been frequent and very positive," Berhalter added.
Major Win for Chicago Fire
"Bringing in a footballer of his experience, leadership, and goalscoring ability can only make us stronger," Berhalter said. "The addition would be extraordinary for the league, as well as the city of Chicago, which boasts a huge Polish diaspora."
The Fire have reached the MLS Cup playoffs only once since 2017, but currently sit third in the Eastern Conference at the mid-season break. Adding one of soccer's greatest goal scorers could prove transformational.
Lewandowski has indicated interest in "an option in a lower league" and appears ready for the reduced rigors of MLS. The 37-year-old is not yet contemplating retirement and seeks a novel experience away from Europe's spotlight.