The Daily Dirt, December 27: Going to market

The interest from international clubs in MLS players, like Darlington Nagbe and Ignacio Piatti, will continue to grow as the league improves. As the talent level rises, other clubs from around the world will look to poach players from the league.

The calendar MLS uses lends itself to different types of moves. Teams in mid-season that have an injury, or just need a new option in a certain position, can come to MLS to shop. MLS is more likely to sell a player in its offseason than during the summer window. It’s a smaller market, but one that can be beneficial to both sides.

Piatti has played the best soccer of his career in Montreal, while Nagbe’s only professional club has been the Timbers. If these players were to move on, it would be a sign of a successful league. MLS will have to decide if it wants to give these types of players pay raises when foreign clubs come calling, or if it chooses to reload with new recruits.

Atlanta United has only been on the buying side of this game so far, but the time will come when its players are in high demand.

Domestic

A look at Earnie Stewart’s work in the transfer market for Philadelphia (Philly Voice)

Argentine clubs interested in Montreal’s Ignacio Piatti (Mount Royal Soccer)

More on the Nagbe situation (Stumptown Footy)

Kansas City reportedly adding two wingers for 2017 (Kansas City Star)

International

Bob Bradley might not have much time left at Swansea (SB Nation)

Local

Fayetteville’s McCurry Park will add lights to two more fields (AJC)