Goretzka Set for June 30 Exit as Europe Leads MLS Chase

goretzka is set to become a free agent on June 30, and his next stop is leaning toward Europe rather than MLS. Chicago Fire have opened discussions, but multiple reports say the Bayern Munich midfielder is favoring a move that keeps him on the European stage.

Goretzka and Chicago Fire

The 31-year-old German international has drawn interest from Chicago, yet the recruitment battle is widening beyond MLS. AC Milan, Atletico Madrid, Manchester United, Roma and Inter are all reportedly circling him as the Bayern contract edge approaches.

Goretzka arrived at Bayern from Schalke 04 in 2018 on a free transfer and has since made more than 300 appearances for the club. That run has kept him in the German national team setup during the 2026 FIFA World Cup cycle, which makes his next move more sensitive than a routine summer departure.

Bayern Munich Deadline

June 30 is the hard line. After that date, Bayern lose a player who has been part of multiple Bundesliga title campaigns and Champions League runs, while Goretzka gains the freedom to choose between staying in Europe or taking the MLS route.

The choice now sits with him. For clubs in Europe, the appeal is clear: a proven midfielder with top-level experience becomes available for no transfer fee. For Chicago Fire, the opening remains, but the balance of the chase still points toward the continent.