Report: TFC working to part ways with Insigne before season
Toronto FC and Lorenzo Insigne are working toward parting ways, sources told Tom Bogert of GiveMeSport.
The Italian's departure isn't imminent, but both the club and player are "motivated" to find a solution this winter before the new Major League Soccer campaign kicks off in February, Bogert adds.
A return to Europe, where the January transfer window is open, or a move to the Middle East could materialize for the 33-year-old. If a transfer doesn't come to fruition, TFC could opt for a contract buyout, according to Bogert.
Insigne, the second-highest paid player in MLS behind only Lionel Messi, earns $15.4 million per season. His contract runs until the summer of 2026.
Insigne joined the Canadian club as a free agent in 2022, leaving hometown team Napoli shortly after playing a key role in Italy's Euro 2020 triumph.
He was expected to be a transformative signing who, together with compatriot Federico Bernardeschi, would help TFC return to prominence in MLS. But his spell in Toronto has been blighted by injuries, a lack of on-field production, and off-field drama. TFC haven't reached the playoffs since Insigne's arrival, with the diminutive attacker registering just 14 league goals.
He reportedly had disagreements with former head coach Bob Bradley and interim replacement Terry Dunfield. His fit with bench boss John Herdman, meanwhile, never appeared natural during the 2024 campaign. Herdman, who stepped down as TFC coach in November, appeared to question Insigne's motivation after a late-season match against Inter Miami.
Toronto FC are still looking for a new head coach to replace Herdman.
Insigne, who started only 17 games in 2024, finished the season with four goals and five assists, taking a back seat to Bernardeschi in the process.