By FRANCO PANIZO
The search for a new home for Carles Puyol is on, and New York is a destination he would consider heading to.
According to a report from Spanish outlet Marca, Puyol has decided that he will not be staying at Barcelona beyond this season and is exploring the possibility of joining either the New York Red Bulls or New York City FC. The injury-plagued Spanish centerback has reportedly been in contact with the two MLS clubs, but that discussions have been preliminary and just as a method to gauge their interest in signing him.
Puyol, who turns 36 in April, has been dealing with repeated knee problems in recent years that have hindered his ability to get on the field for Barcelona. While a move away from the club where he has won multiple UEFA Champions Leagues is likely, joining an MLS club will be tough given his age and salary. He currently makes $13.7 million a season, and would have to count as a Designated Player if he were to stay on that kind of money in MLS.
Puyol, however, needs to first negotiate a settlement with Barcelona. The Spanish national team player is currently under contract with the club until June 2016.
What are the odds of Puyol coming to MLS? Not great unless he’s willing to take an astronomical paycut. MLS doesn’t have a history of signing aging defenders to Designated Player deals, and with most teams focusing their DP resources toward attacking players, Puyol coming to MLS seems like a long shot.
What do you think of Puyol potentially signing with the Red Bulls or NYCFC? Think the clubs should steer clear given his age and recent injury history? Would Puyol be a good addition to MLS?
Share your thoughts below.