Real Salt Lake Determined to Retain Diego Luna Amid European Interest

Real Salt Lake are resolute in their commitment to keep Diego Luna through the summer transfer window, despite mounting interest from European clubs. As one of Major League Soccer’s most promising young midfielders, Luna’s status has attracted attention from abroad, but sources close to the club confirm that no formal offers have been received to date.

Real Salt Lake’s Stance on Diego Luna Transfer Rumors

Real Salt Lake, affectionately known as RSL, have made clear their intentions regarding Diego Luna’s future. Club officials emphasize that Luna remains a fundamental part of their squad, both in the immediate term and for the future. The 22-year-old U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) midfielder recently signed a new contract in 2024, including a club option that could extend his stay through the 2028 MLS season.

Interest from Spanish clubs, namely Espanyol and Celta Vigo, has been widely reported, but RSL has reiterated its stance—they are not entertaining offers for Luna at this stage. Sources assert that Luna is considered the face of the franchise, making his continued presence essential as the club targets further domestic and international success.

Diego Luna’s Rise in 2025: From MLS Breakout to USMNT Mainstay

After a standout 2024 campaign that saw Luna capture the MLS Young Player of the Year award, his stature only grew in 2025. Luna established himself within the USMNT setup under coach Mauricio Pochettino by impressing during January’s national team camp—remarkably playing on with a broken nose. Throughout the year, Luna featured in 17 matches for the USMNT, netting four goals, including a highlight strike against Uruguay in their final game of 2025. His performances earned him a spot in the CONCACAF Gold Cup Best XI.

At club level, Luna continued to impress, tallying nine goals and seven assists for Real Salt Lake. His on-field impact was recognized with a second MLS All-Star selection and the prestigious 2025 Audi Goals Drive Progress Impact Award, which honors players making a positive difference through soccer.

Looking Ahead: Luna’s Ambitions for 2026 and the World Cup

As 2026 approaches, Luna has set clear goals for himself—both with RSL and on the international stage. The midfielder is vying for a coveted spot on the USMNT roster for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, facing stiff competition but approaching the challenge with optimism and determination. In a November interview, Luna reflected on his breakout year and his desire to surpass those achievements, stating, “That’s the goal for me every year: do it better. I want to improve with stats, with my mental health, with how I’m feeling outside of the field, my physical health, my family, everything. That’s the way I’m trying to take life.”

Luna also emphasized that the offseason is not just a break, but a crucial period to balance family time with the work ethic required to make 2026 another standout year. His mindset is focused on continuous growth, both as a player and as a person.

What Comes Next for Real Salt Lake and Diego Luna?

Real Salt Lake will kick off their new MLS season on February 21, facing last season’s Western Conference champions, the Vancouver Whitecaps. As Luna prepares for another pivotal campaign, his performances will be closely watched by both domestic fans and European scouts alike. Additionally, the March international break will offer Luna another chance to cement his USMNT credentials as the team faces Belgium and Portugal in Atlanta.

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Opinion: RSL Right to Hold Firm on Their Star Midfielder

In my view, Real Salt Lake’s decision to retain Diego Luna is not only a reflection of his immense value to the team but also a testament to MLS’s growing ability to nurture and keep top talent. Luna’s rapid development and leadership, both on and off the field, make him a cornerstone for RSL’s ambitions. With his eyes set on the World Cup and more to come, Luna’s journey will be a storyline worth following throughout 2026.