Three MLS Players Orlando City Could Target Before the Transfer Deadline

Apr 16, 2022; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Jackson Yueill (14) kicks
Apr 16, 2022; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Jackson Yueill (14) kicks / Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
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Apr 19, 2022; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Jackson Yueill (14) spins
Apr 19, 2022; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Jackson Yueill (14) spins / Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Jackson Yueill, San Jose Earthquakes

The first two suggestions in this post are short-term band aids to temporarily patch some holes in this year's team. They'd help, but wouldn't significantly move the needle for this group.

This potential trade is far bigger and I'm much more interested in somehow making it happen. Jackson Yueill has been probably San Jose's best player for the last several seasons and even flirted with the USMNT. With all the turnover with the Quakes, Yuiell has become their captain and a key piece for the future.

However, for a rebuilding club like the Earthquakes, everyone has a price, especially with other midfielders like Jan Gregus and Judson already on the books. Yueill could completely change the complexion of Orlando's midfield by adding a player who can really spray long passes.

He's also solid as a defensive ball winner and can get aggressive and push into the final third. Yueill could easily slot in any midfield spot for the Lions and make the group better. At just 25, the Minnesota native could also become a long-term leader in the center.

The biggest problem with this potential deal is the assets. Orlando would probably give up one of its talented midfielders plus a decent bit of allocation cash (or just GAM if it traded away someone beforehand), and this isn't the type of move we've seen from Luiz Muzzi since arriving in Orlando. But if the Lions wanted to bolster their strengths and add more on top of it, Yueill could be a massive figure for the club.