Manchester United have agreed to allow midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger to join Major League Soccer outfit Chicago Fire.
A deal between the clubs was finalised on Monday and is subject to a medical and visa being secured for the former Germany captain.
The 32-year-old has signed a one-year deal with the MLS side, according to Chicago Tribune newspaper.
“I am sad to leave so many friends at Manchester United,” Schweinsteiger said.
“But I am grateful to the club for allowing me the chance to take up this challenge at Chicago Fire.
“I have enjoyed working with the manager, players and staff but I have to reserve special thanks to the United fans – whose support has been a very special part of my time in Manchester.
“I was delighted to be part of the squad that won the FA Cup for them last season and will always remember their energy and their passion.”
Thanks to all fans, the whole staff and my teammates of @ManUtd! I will never forget my time with the club, but now it’s time for a change! pic.twitter.com/zYn2o5Cjsk
— Bastian Schweinsteiger (@BSchweinsteiger) March 21, 2017
Schweinsteiger, who led Germany to World Cup victory in 2014, had talks with Chicago Fire last year but decided to stay at Old Trafford instead.
Fire manager Velko Paunovic is excited to welcome the veteran midfielder to Toyota Park.
“In the locker room, he will be a huge example of a champion,” Paunovic told the Chicago Tribune.
“He still is somebody that ca show that on the field and [demonstrate] how our guys have to work, prepare, behave, think and work together in order to get that level.”
Schweinsteiger, who was signed by ex-Red Devils gaffer Louis van Gaal in 2015, made 18 appearances and scored one goal in his two years at the Theatre of Dreams.
By Drew Darbyshire (@DarbySports)
