Chicago Fire Withdraws From the Race to Bring Robert Lewandowski to MLS and Leaves His Future Uncertain

Robert Lewandowski’s future takes an unexpected turn: Chicago Fire are stepping away after months of talks. With the Polish striker uncertain and Hugo Cuypers on fire, MLS priorities have shifted.

Chicago Fire cool off: Lewandowski’s MLS dream fades

The potential move of Robert Lewandowski to MLS is starting to fade away. According to The Athletic, Chicago Fire are no longer seriously considering signing the Polish striker once his contract with FC Barcelona expires this summer.

What once looked like a realistic — and even priority — move has now turned into a deal rapidly losing momentum. The American club, which showed strong interest during the winter transfer window, has decided to redirect its focus toward other targets.

A long winter of negotiations… with no agreement

During the past winter, Chicago Fire held multiple talks to try to secure Lewandowski’s signing. Reports suggest the club pushed hard when uncertainty around his Barcelona contract became clear.

However, negotiations never reached a breakthrough. There was no financial or sporting agreement, and time ultimately worked against the deal.

The player himself added to the uncertainty with statements that raised more questions than answers:
“I’m not even 50% sure which path I want to take,” he admitted recently.

That lack of clarity appears to have influenced the club’s final decision.

Hugo Cuypers reshapes Chicago’s plans

While Lewandowski’s name was losing momentum, another striker stepped into the spotlight: Hugo Cuypers.

The Chicago Fire forward has started the season in outstanding form, scoring six goals in five matches, building on a strong 2025 campaign where he netted 17 goals.

His performances have completely reshaped the club’s sporting strategy. Investing in an in-form striker already adapted to the team makes more sense than pursuing a star whose current level raises concerns.

Additionally, the club is reportedly looking ahead to the post-2026 World Cup market, where several European players are expected to become available.

A worrying decline: Lewandowski losing market value

Robert Lewandowski’s current form is not helping his case. After scoring 27 LaLiga goals last season, his numbers in 2026 have dropped significantly: just 12 league goals, and only four across all competitions since January.

There’s also a major international factor: Poland failed to qualify for the World Cup, reducing his global exposure and making it harder to maintain elite status in the coming years.

At 38 years old, the striker is facing one of the most uncertain moments of his recent career. What once seemed like a natural move to MLS now looks far less certain.