San Diego FC Cut Ties With Hirving Lozano as Transfer Race Takes Shape
San Diego FC’s decision to move on from Hirving Chucky Lozano has brought a sudden end to what was meant to be a cornerstone signing for the club, leaving the Mexico international at a crossroads as interest builds from both MLS and Liga MX.
Once presented as the face of San Diego’s expansion project, Lozano now finds himself evaluating his next move after the club opted for a reset, with Cruz Azul and Atlanta United emerging as the most realistic contenders in an increasingly defined race.
Cruz Azul were among the first clubs approached, according to ESPN, and the interest is genuine. The Liga MX side lack a natural winger of Lozano’s profile, and his direct style would fit neatly into Nicolás Larcamón’s attacking system, offering width, pace, and experience at the highest level.
The broader context, however, complicates any potential return to Mexico. Lozano’s reported salary of $7.6 million including bonuses places him well outside Cruz Azul’s current wage structure, meaning a significant pay cut would be required for talks to progress beyond the exploratory stage.
In MLS, Atlanta United are also positioning themselves as serious suitors. The club has entered a rebuilding phase following a disappointing campaign that left them near the bottom of the Eastern Conference, prompting the return of Gerardo Martino to lead a fresh project.
Early signs point to a renewed emphasis on speed and vertical play, areas where Lozano remains highly effective. Martino’s previous working relationship with the winger during his time with the Mexico national team adds an extra layer of credibility to Atlanta’s interest and could smooth negotiations if the club decides to move forward.
Elsewhere in Liga MX, Tigres continue to hover in the background. The Monterrey-based club have previously explored a move for Lozano and remain one of the few sides in Mexico capable of matching his financial demands, should they choose to act decisively.
Toluca represent a quieter but intriguing option. While no formal link has been established, Antonio Turco Mohamed’s side are ambitious both domestically and in CONCACAF competition, and a player of Lozano’s pedigree would align with their broader objectives as they push to remain among the region’s elite.
Not all paths remain open. Chivas, Monterrey, and Pachuca have all publicly ruled themselves out of contention, with senior figures from each club confirming there are no plans to pursue the forward ahead of the upcoming tournament.
With San Diego closing the chapter and several doors already shut, Lozano’s next move is now approaching a decisive phase. Whether he opts for a high-profile reset in MLS or a recalibrated return to Liga MX, the outcome will shape the next stage of his club career and influence his standing at international level as Mexico look ahead to their next competitive cycle.