With European clubs AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Legia Warsaw and Red Star Belgrade all scheduled to play at Toyota Park beginning next month, Chicago fans will get an opportunity to see some of the world’s best in their own backyard.
But Fire technical director Frank Klopas is looking at Chicago’s upcoming exhibition matches with a more watchful eye. The club has zero Designated Players on the roster and this spring’s friendlies will provide the Fire with a great opportunity to scout -- and possibly snatch -- a European star.
“We’re always looking and this is an opportunity,” Klopas told MLSsoccer.com over the phone on Thursday. “There are some good teams coming in with some good talented players, so there are going to be opportunities to see some options there. We’ll definitely be on the lookout.”
Klopas said that there are no plans in place to talk with any specific players, only that “there are a lot of good players on all four teams coming in.” However, one player who would seem to fit the Fire’s needs is PSG’s Ludovic Guily.
Reports out of France have hinted that the winger is interested in coming to MLS and -- with the Fire in need of another attacking midfielder -- Chicago would seem like a natural fit.
“You definitely didn’t hear [any rumors about him from me],” Klopas said. “Giuly’s a good player. But he’s got a year left in his contract at PSG and it’s his option to stay or not so it’s not like he’s a free player in June.”
Of course, no article about the Fire potentially signing a DP would be complete without mention of Mexican star Cuauhtémoc Blanco. The former Fire forward has played his last game of the season for Mexican club Veracruz and could return to the Fire after this summer’s World Cup
