It's not the offseason yet. But that has never stopped the rumor mill from churning.
Wednesday's novelty emerges from Spain and specifically the program Punto Pelota, in which Spanish reporter Pipi Estrada says that Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso is contemplating a move to MLS when his contract expires in the summer of 2014.
More from The Sideline
- WATCH: Rice football kicker uses soccer trick on onside kick
- Rumor Central: Xabi Alonso coming to MLS?
- Saint Zusi: Mexicans cannonize SKC star
Estrada claims that "Xabi will not go to the Premier League, to the Serie A or to the French league. Instead, his future is in the United States and he'll play for the LA Galaxy or the New York Red Bulls."
When contacted by MLSsoccer.com, the Red Bulls declined to comment on the story, while the Galaxy said they "have not pursued" Alonso.
Alonso, a Spanish international who turns 32 in November, is yet to make an appearance for Real Madrid this season as he recovers from a sports hernia and a right foot fracture he suffered in August. He's not set a date for his return and he continues to train on the side.
Estrada went as far as claiming that if Alonso moves to MLS, it would be on a two-year contract.
"If it comes to pass, he would be in the United States until he's 34," he said. "And if he feels fit, he could play a final season with Real Sociedad, the club that's dearest to him."
