Major League Soccer continues to evolve, and the 2025 season marks a new era of aggressive investment, global talent acquisition, and record-breaking deals. At the center of this transformation are the league’s highest-paid newcomers—players who bring both star power and hefty paychecks. Below, we break down the most notable signings and what they mean for the league’s competitive balance.
Miguel Almirón Headlines the Class of 2025
Returning to MLS after time in Europe, Miguel Almirón leads the list of top-earning newcomers. The former Atlanta United star rejoins the league with expectations as high as his paycheck. He is one of three Atlanta United players featured in this elite group, signaling the club’s ambition to return to championship form.
Record Transfer Fees Redefine the Market
Two forwards top the charts not only in wages but also in transfer fees:
- Emmanuel Latte Lath shattered the MLS transfer record with a $22 million fee and an annual salary north of $4 million. His arrival is a clear statement of intent for both his club and the league at large.
- Kevin Denkey, briefly the most expensive player in MLS history with a $16 million fee, sits just behind Latte Lath in earnings. His presence in the league has further elevated the attacking standards.
Alexey Miranchuk and Evander See Major Salary Jumps
- Alexey Miranchuk, who joined MLS midseason in 2024, has seen his listed salary increase from $3.69 million to $4.89 million in 2025—part of a pre-structured contract extension.
- Evander, now with FC Cincinnati after a high-profile trade from Portland, also secured a lucrative deal, earning $4.74 million annually. Portland, in turn, signed David da Costa, who joins the top earners as well.
Wilfried Zaha Adds Star Power to Charlotte FC
Veteran winger Wilfried Zaha completes the top 12 list, signing with Charlotte FC and bringing global recognition and attacking flair. Alongside Pep Biel and Tim Ream, Charlotte is quickly becoming one of the league’s most intriguing teams both on and off the pitch.
Other Top-Paid Newcomers in 2025
Here’s a look at additional newcomers making an impact financially and competitively:
| Player | Team | 2025 Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Pep Biel | Charlotte FC | $1,545,162 |
| Josef Martinez | San Jose Earthquakes | $1,450,000 |
| Tim Ream | Charlotte FC | $1,142,500 |
| Jackson Yueill | New England Revolution | $1,086,750 |
| Jack Elliott | Chicago Fire | $1,008,537 |
| Mark Delgado | LAFC | $1,000,000 |
| Ryan Kent | Seattle Sounders | $959,900 |
| Tai Baribo | Philadelphia Union | $810,000 |
| Oscar Urhoghide | FC Dallas | $643,982 |
| Cavan Sullivan | Philadelphia Union | $364,000 |
Conclusion: A New Financial Frontier for MLS
With the 2025 season underway, the influx of high-paid, high-profile players is shifting MLS into a bold new chapter. Clubs are no longer hesitant to invest big in international and domestic talent, making the league increasingly competitive—and compelling to watch.
The big question now is whether these financial bets will translate into on-field success. If they do, 2025 could mark the year MLS took its biggest step toward becoming a true global football force.
