Robert Lewandowski to Chicago Fire would reignite Lionel Messi rivalry in MLS

With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Robert Lewandowski's situation at Barcelona is uncertain. At 37 years old, the club's leadership has not yet decided whether to extend the Pole's stay, a decision the player himself has postponed until the presidential elections. 

In the meantime, however, he is reportedly being tempted with a lucrative possibility: becoming Lionel Messi's new rival in MLS and dethroning Inter Miami.

According to reports, the option of moving to the United States has gone from being a rumor to a real alternative. After being linked to Saudi Arabia, AC Milan and Turkey, the Chicago Fire has reportedly taken the lead and emerged as the main party interested in securing Lewandowski, to the point of having already launched a courtship operation.

"The club knows Robert is waiting for FC Barcelona, but they are doing everything possible to convince him," ESPN journalist Janusz Michallik said, via Mundo Deportivo, adding that "Chicago is 100% committed to signing him and they are fighting to convince him and his wife."

Gregg Berhalter, current coach and sporting director of the Chicago Fire, took the first step a couple of months ago by traveling to Spain to meet personally with Lewandowski and his agent. 

Robert Lewandowski and Lionel Messi could renew their rivalry in MLS

The objective was to present a project that includes financial aspects and a comprehensive life plan for his family. The intention is for him to be the star of a franchise aiming to transform into a "superclub" ahead of the opening of its new stadium in 2028.

However, the magnitude of Chicago's operation also puts pressure on the Pole: if he does not decide on this transfer window, the franchise has signaled that it will activate a Plan B.

Nevertheless, the ingredient that adds the most appeal to this potential transfer is the imminent reunion with Lionel Messi. If his move to the U.S. materializes, Lewandowski would automatically become the new major opponent for the Argentine star on North American soil.

This move would reignite a relationship that has had flashpoints in the past. From the controversial voting for the 2021 Ballon d'Or to the encounter at the World Cup in Qatar, where the Argentine captain ignored a greeting from the Pole after a foul.