Former LAFC striker Carlos Vela is leaning towards staying in MLS. According to The Athletic’s Tom Bogert, Vela is currently in advanced talks with San Jose Earthquakes.
Vela’s contract with LAFC expired at the end of the 2023 MLS campaign, and it was believed that the 2019 MLS MVP would return to their native Mexico. LAFC also showed interest in re-signing him, although on a less lucrative contract.
Now, Earthquakes are believed to be in the leading position to sign Vela. The negotiations between the two sides have been progressing lately, and there is reportedly a good chance that the deal will get over the finishing line soon.
Carlos Vela joined LAFC in 2018 as the franchise’s first-ever designated player. He immediately became one of the biggest stars in MLS and went on to be honored with the MLS Best XI selection three times. His best season in MLS came in 2019 when he scored 34 goals and won the MLS Golden Boot and MLS MVP Award. In 2022, he also helped LAFC win the MLS Cup.
Vela previously played with Arsenal, Osasuna, and Real Sociedad, among other teams. He also made 72 appearances for Mexico’s national team before retiring from international soccer following the 2018 World Cup.
