Chicago Fire plot Lewandowski swoop to join Mbokazi

Fresh off the blockbuster signing of South African sensation Mbekezeli Mbokazi, MLS outfit Chicago Fire FC are reportedly preparing an even bigger shockwave: a move for Barcelona’s legendary marksman Robert Lewandowski.

The Fire, who recently ended a painful seven-year playoff hiatus, appear determined to transition from “contenders” to “heavyweights.” By pairing the 20-year-old Mbokazi—a defensive pillar for Bafana Bafana—with one of the greatest strikers in football history, the Windy City club is signalling a new era of ambition.

The Mbokazi Foundation

The acquisition of Mbokazi from Orlando Pirates on a deal until 2029 was seen as a masterstroke. The youngster’s role in guiding South Africa to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has made him one of the most talked-about defensive prospects in the league. However, Chicago’s leadership knows that while “defence wins championships,” star power sells tickets and wins games.

The Verdict on Lewandowski

According to BBC Sport, “positive talks” have already taken place between the club and the 37-year-old Polish icon. While the Saudi Pro League looms as a financial rival, several factors suggest Chicago is in the driver’s seat:

Family Ties. Rumours hit fever pitch last month when Lewandowski’s wife, Anna, was spotted scouting the city of Chicago.

Tactical Bureaucracy: Chicago has strategically placed the Pole on their “discovery list.” This means even a club like Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami would have to pay the Fire just for the right to talk to him.

The Project: After unsuccessful attempts to lure Neymar and Kevin De Bruyne, the ownership group is reportedly ready to meet Lewandowski’s wage demands to finally secure a global talisman.

A Masterclass for the South African

If the deal is struck this summer, the biggest beneficiary might be Mbokazi himself. The Bafana international would find himself testing his mettle daily in training against a man who has netted over 700 senior goals and sits third on the all-time Champions League scoring charts.

Lewandowski, whose contract at the Camp Nou expires this summer, remains a lethal force. As one of only five players to score a century of goals for three different clubs, his veteran presence would be the ultimate “finishing school” for Chicago’s young South African star.

Whether Lewandowski chooses the shores of Lake Michigan over the riches of the Middle East remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Chicago Fire is no longer content with just making the playoffs—they want the world’s best.