MLS to Introduce 'Youth Transfer Fund'

[ScoRoss 499]

Quote

Sources said the new rule, which is in the final stages of development, will allow teams to use $3 million through the end of the 2022 season. The fund would be restricted to players aged 20 or younger, and the goal is for those players to come to the league, develop, and potentially be sold for a profit in later seasons.

Can't help but think that this is a major response to Atlanta's successful transfer strategy. A transformation from a retirement league to a mid-tier 'development' league like Portugal and Holland would be a huge setup for MLS and could be a big step to legitimizing their league amongst more casual viewers.

[Stan 10,795]

isn't this what 'moneyball' is? 

buy cheap and young, sell expensive when older? 

It's a good idea; the MLS does need to eradicate the tag of 'one last paycheck' for players where there's still enough publicity for players to make a name for themselves. 

This may also help their national team, too, in the (very) long run. Invest in youth level and there could be rewards. It's low-risk as well.