MLS Players Association proposes $100M in payroll relief for league

Find out the latest on COVID-19's impact on the sports world and when sports are returning by subscribing to Breaking News push notifications in the Sports and COVID-19 section.

The MLS Players Association has sent a proposal to Major League Soccer that would save the league more than $100 million in player salaries amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The cuts would include "salary reductions, salary deferrals, and significant reduction of bonuses," sources told Jeff Carlisle of ESPN.

The union's offer comes after the league reportedly suggested that players slash their wages by 20% for the remainder of the 2020 campaign.

"Conversations between the MLSPA and the league about concessions have been challenging but constructive," MLSPA executive director Bob Foose said, per ESPN.

"Despite the fact that CBA negotiations were just concluded and we anticipated a deal for the next five seasons, to share in the sacrifice caused by the coronavirus crisis, MLS players have stepped up to offer a package that would bring over $100 million in economic relief to the league and its owners."

The MLSPA offer works out to about one-third of the league's payroll, which is roughly $310 million, Carlisle added.

Major League Soccer has been on hiatus since March 12. Some clubs have recently been able to reopen their facilities, with players engaging in individual workouts while ensuring they're abiding by safety protocols.

A return date has not been decided, but the league has reportedly proposed a four-to-five week tournament beginning June 22, with Orlando identified as a potential hub city to house all 26 clubs and host the matches.