1. Tyler Boyd – United States – Winger
Three months ago, most fans of the United States would not have been able to tell you who Tyler Boyd was. The once New Zealand U-20 international was quietly flying under the radar while playing at club level in Turkey, but after making the one-time switch to represent the United States internationally this summer, Boyd has since exploded onto the scene.
The 24-year-old speedster can play on either wing, has terrific quickness and dribbling ability, and immediately helped fill a void for the Stars and Stripes. He can take on defenders in one-on-ones, serve in devastating crosses on set pieces, and produce scoring chances when cutting inside. With Boyd’s solid play at the Gold Cup now on the forefront of other clubs abroad, now may be the best time for MLS teams to bid on the future USMNT star.
Potential Destinations – Columbus Crew, LA Galaxy, Toronto FC, Inter Miami
As a young American just beginning to enter his prime, Boyd could be the hottest commodity for MLS teams to acquire this summer. Both with the potential to generate jersey sales and provide quality play on the field, plenty of teams around the league could do with his services on the wing.
Could he sign with the Crew, whose new ownership group has pledged to their fan base that they would put their money where their mouth is when it comes to signing bigger names and building a new stadium? Could it be the LA Galaxy, who have the money and the cultural appeal to make Boyd a celebrity near his hometown in Southern California? Could it be Toronto, whose desperate need for a dynamic winger could be satisfied by giving Boyd the opportunity to compete for championships alongside USMNT legends in Jozy Altidore and Michael Bradley? Or could it be an expansion side like Inter Miami, where the thought of becoming a marquee signing with the ability to put his mark on something completely new could be too much for Boyd to pass up?
Regardless of whether or not Boyd finds his way to MLS this season, do not expect for the transfer rumors to end anytime soon.