Bastian Schweinsteiger is edging closer to his Manchester United exit and is in talks with a switch to the MLS, sources have told ESPN.
What's the word?
German legend Bastian Schweinsteiger has endured a tough time since switching Bayern Munich for Manchester United but it seems the nightmare is coming to an end, as multiple sources have told ESPN he's in talks to join MLS outfit Chicago Fire.
Frozen out by Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho this season and a fresh start under the Portuguese boss is extremely unlikely. Schweinsteiger's incredible ability shouldn't be shelved for too long and he certainly deserves more playing time, with the World Cup winner having a lot to offer.
32-years-old, Schweinsteiger is at the twilight years of his career but has a few years in him before he hangs up his boots for good.
Will it be easy to complete?
Not at all, the MLS is notoriously complicated transfer wise and the situation is even more difficult with foreign players. The Express published photos which showed a meeting between Schweinsteiger and Fire's manager Veljko Paunovic has taken place but talks have not progressed far.
Manchester United would have to pay the midfielder off in January but Fire possess 'discovery rights' on Schweinsteiger, which gives the club first priority amongst MLS sides to sign the former German international.
The German would be outside of Fire's wage restrictions as a designated player, which is a rule that allows clubs to sign a few high-profile players to help their side's rise on the field and commercially.
Where else could Schweinsteiger go?
A move elsewhere in Europe seems incredibly unlikely, as Schweinsteiger told reporters back in August that Manchester United would be his last European side. However, he was this week urged to return to Germany and join Stuttgart by former team-mate Kevin Grosskreutz.
Other than that, the only real alternative for Schweinsteiger is an high-paying move to China. Whilst that's been discussed by many on social media, there hasn't actually been any genuine links to emerge in the media.
Wherever he goes, the 32-year-old will bring a wealth of experience wherever he goes. 121 international caps goes a long way.