Chicago Fire FC sign 15-year-old from Niles

Zoom in: Turdean hails from Niles and attends the Chicago Fire Academy, which is an accredited middle and high school specifically designed for soccer student-athletes.

What they're saying: "His decision to choose the Fire over major European clubs speaks volumes about the environment we're building and our commitment to developing local talent," Fire FC coach Gregg Berhalter said in a statement.

The big picture: Turdean not only receives the biggest Homegrown Player contract in Club history, but it's the second-biggest in league history.

• The financial details were not released, but the Fire could exercise options to keep him under contract through the 2030 season.

Zoom out: The Fire has had an eventful offseason, making waves by engaging in contract talks with Brazilian superstar Neymar.

Yes, but: Neymar looks to have rebuffed the Fire, instead reportedly signing with a club in Brazil.

• The Fire moved on to sign international star winger Jonathan Bamba from Spain using the Designated Player rule, which allows teams to sign superstars outside the league's salary cap.
• Miami FC used this rule to acquire Lionel Messi, who became the MLS's biggest draw in 2023.

The bottom line: These moves signal the Fire wants to make a splash in a busy sports town.