Bayern Munich legend, Bastin Schweinsteiger has completed a move to MLS club, Chicago Fire. The Manchester United mid-fielder has been a long-term target for Chicago, and was spotted in a meeting with Fire manager Veljko Paunovic in November.
The former German international was out of United boss Jose Mourinho’s plans at Old Trafford and could join the Fire as early as next week, pending only a visa and a medical.
"We're adding someone who has won at every level, including the very highest levels, and has done so in a way that is consistent with our values," Fire general manager Nelson Rodriguez told the paper.
"We as a club will now be forced to hold ourselves to a higher standard, an accountability level. Previously, I think we could satisfy ourselves with what is known domestically. Now we need to rise to a standard that is set more internationally."
Schweinsteiger signed a designated player contract with a salary of 4.5 million USD this year, for a year deal with a mutual option for the future.
Schweinsteiger left Bayern to play in the Premier League for Manchester United in 2015, but has been restricted to just 18 overall appearances for the club, after falling out of favor with Jose last year.
United said that the 32-year-old was free to find another club, but Schweinsteiger opted to stay at Old Trafford and fight for his place, at the same time as training away from the first team with the club's youngsters. Despite interest from the MLS, China and Italian clubs.
Schweinsteiger has only made one substitute appearance for United in the Eurpoa League on Feb 22nd, since scoring against Wingan in the FA cup on Jan 29th.
"Throughout my career, I've always sought opportunities where I hoped to make a positive impact and to help make something great," Schweinsteiger said in a statement.
From past two seasons the Chicago Fire have finished with the lowest points in the MLS.
Chicago Fire have started the season with a win, a draw and lost one to 4-0 to Atlanta United on Saturday.
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