MLS eyes new marquee as Chicago Fire chase Lewandowski

Polish striker Robert Lewandowski has signed a two‑year contract with Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire, securing a deal that will make him one of the league’s highest‑paid players. The 37‑year‑old joins the Eastern Conference club ahead of the upcoming season.

Director of Football and head coach Gregg Berhalter said the club is aiming to recruit world‑class talent, describing Lewandowski as a “great signing not only for the Chicago Fire, but for the league.” He added that the striker ranks “right up there with Messi in terms of ability” and would be “great for the city of Chicago.”

Lewandowski arrives in the Windy City after amassing 662 goals in over 900 appearances for Znicz Pruszków, Lech Poznań, Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and Barcelona. His trophy cabinet holds 33 major honours earned across those clubs.

He is Poland’s all‑time leader in caps (167) and goals (89), having represented the Biało‑Czerwoni at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

The signing gives Chicago Fire a veteran of European success and provides MLS with a marquee player, as Berhalter suggested it will boost the league’s profile and the city’s appeal. For Lewandowski, the move marks the next chapter of a decorated career in a new market.

MLS anticipates that Lewandowski’s arrival will add an iconic veteran presence to the league’s roster this summer. He will line up as a striker for Chicago Fire, bringing his proven goal‑scoring pedigree to the team.