Could These Top MLS Talents Be Destined For The Premier League?

Match winner

Denis Bouanga was the @lafc3252 Man of the Match.#LAFC | @Heineken_US pic.twitter.com/yCdCQHwCvU

— LAFC (@LAFC) April 28, 2024

Previously, acquiring the services of players from American soccer was largely seen as a big risk. For every Clint Dempsey and Brian McBride, there were plenty of Jozy Altidores.

These days, though, Premier League clubs are assessing the extensive selection of talents who are shining in the MLS.

English football appeals to MLS players 

As you might expect, some of Major League Soccer’s star professionals would struggle to turn down the advances of any Premier League club. It’s a competition many players have grown up watching, fans around the world listen to podcasts dedicated to it and back the likes of Arsenal to win the league at 21/10 when assessing Premier League football odds, and it’s still regarded as the ultimate domestic competition around.

While fans who follow England’s top-flight pick their fantasy teams and have the occasional football bet, there are other notable features of English football that appeal to players in the MLS. From the competition’s rich history to the rise in wages they’re likely to receive, turning out for sides like West Ham and Tottenham is an enticing opportunity.

As such, with many world-famous Premier League clubs potentially looking for the next Tim Ream and Miguel Almiron, let’s assess some standout candidates who could be destined for a move to English football’s major competition in the summer.

Dénis Bouanga has goals in him 

If some of English football’s most historic clubs are searching for goals to add to their respective sides in the summer, then Dénis Bouanga is an MLS goal machine who could do the job. The Frenchman is entering the latter stages of his career at the tender age of 29, but the Golden Boot winner in 2023 has clearly matured at LAFC and has the tools needed to succeed in England.

A current Gabon international striker, Bouanga is also hungry to secure a move back to European football. In 2023, the former Saint-Étienne forward said: “My objective is clear and stated: I would like to come back and play in France or in a European club.”

Take note, Premier League teams.

Luciano Acosta is ready for a big move 

After winning the 2023 Landon Donovan MLS MV, Luciano Acosta’s stock immediately rose last season. Fast forward to 2024 and the Argentine continues to shine for FC Cincinnati. Currently in his prime with further years to dedicate to the sport, the attacking midfield player would surely jump at the chance to play for teams in England.

While the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City are undoubtedly off the table, promoted clubs or teams looking to kick further on next season, such as Crystal Palace or Brentford, could be realistic options for Acosta. One thing’s for sure, FC Cincinnati will do extremely well to keep hold of their star man.

Cucho Hernández deserves another crack in England

Good week pic.twitter.com/HH23Ps5jpZ

— Juan Camilo Hernández (@CuchoHernandez) May 6, 2024

Despite showing glimpses of his undoubted ability during his time in England with Watford, Cucho Hernández failed to win over the Hornets’ faithful. Since moving to America midway through the 2022 MLS season, though, the Colombian has been one of Columbus Crew’s key players. In fact, without him, Crew almost certainly wouldn’t have lifted the 2023 title.

Nowadays, the former Mallorca and Getafe loanee is one of the MLS’ brightest sparks, with a number of sides reportedly eyeing him up. Given his impressive showings, there is certainly an argument to suggest that Cucho Hernández deserves another chance in England, perhaps at sides like newly-promoted Ipswich Town or Fulham.