Free agent American forward Mike Grella is leaving every option open as he plots the next stop of his pro career. That includes MLS.
“I think Mike is focused on continuing his career in Europe and we’re looking at some options available to him over there,” Grella's representative, Mike Gartlan of COR Sports Management, told MLSsoccer.com. “He’s always been super-positive on MLS and hasn’t closed the door on anything at this time as far as where the next stop will be for him.”
Earlier this week, the 25-year-old Grella parted ways with English third-division side Brentford after making 12 league appearances and one start since joining in August from Leeds United.
Gartlan, who confirmed receiving inquiries in recent years from MLS clubs interested in the former US youth international, says the top priority for the forward is regular playing time.
“He’s at a great age and he’s had good experience in his career,” Gartlan said. “The most important thing for Mike right now is to find a place where he can continue to move forward and play regularly and get the opportunity that suits his game and his style of play. And like any young American, he’d like to be on the national team.”
Grella, who holds a European passport, was a 2009 SuperDraft pick by Toronto FC but instead opted to sign for Leeds United after impressing on a trial. Two loan spells and a little over two years later, he was released to join Brentford.
Although there is no specific timetable, Gartlan says the goal is for Grella to be training with a new club in the next week to 10 days.
“A few teams that expressed in him before are circling back,” Gartlan said. “Nothing concrete at this time. For Mike, the big goal is that this next move has to be as right as it can be for him. A lot of thought will go into where he ends up and what he does. We’ll see how the process develops.”
