Could Tim Howard be the next US national team star to make the move to MLS?
A report in UK publication the Daily Mail indicates that New York City FC, Toronto FC and LA Galaxy are considering a move for the American No. 1 and World Cup star. Howard, who played in MLS with the MetroStars from 1998 to 2003 at the outset of his career, recently signed a contract extension with Everton through 2018, so a transfer fee would apparently be part of the equation.
A possible driver of these rumors is the performance of Joel Robles, who has impressed since coming on for Howard after he exited with an injury against Stoke City on Boxing Day. At 24 years of age, Robles is clearly in line as the successor for the 35-year-old Howard, who is currently on a year-long hiatus from USMNT duty.
Cardiff City’s David Marshall and Molde’s Orjan Nyland have also been linked to Everton, further evidence that Howard’s days with the Toffees could be numbered. But Howard himself suggested last year that he planned to retire at the club.
"For me, I think the MLS ship has sailed," Howard told SB Nation after the World Cup. "That's what it looks like, anyway. I signed a new four-year contract with Everton. If you cut me open, I bleed blue and I want to finish my career there. I can't foresee myself coming back. I think there was probably a chance before I signed the contract, but not anymore."
