An interesting striker that Toronto FC wanted ended in failure | OneFootball

Toronto FC has kicked off 2025 with significant changes, as the club looks to rebuild after a disappointing 2024 season. The arrival of Robin Fraser as head coach in January has already sparked optimism, with the team focused on tactical improvements and squad adjustments ahead of the new MLS campaign.

One of the first reinforcements under Fraser’s tenure was Theo Corbeanu, who joined on loan to add depth in attack.

An exciting second leg of preseason for TFC

Preseason preparations have been progressing smoothly, with the squad currently training in Toronto before heading to Palm Beach for the next phase. There, Toronto FC will face Columbus Crew and Colorado Rapids, two key tests before the start of the MLS season.

One of the main focuses in training has been adjusting the roles of key players, particularly Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi, who are expected to take on new responsibilities under Fraser, contrasting with how they played under John Herdman last season.

Toronto FC's failed transfer bid for Eldor Shomurodov

While, Toronto FC has made some progress in the transfer market, the club suffered a setback in its pursuit of AS Roma forward Eldor Shomurodov.

Jason Hernández confirmed that Toronto’s advisors, Marco Neppe and Sebastian Giovinco, were heavily involved in negotiations to bring the Uzbek striker on loan. However, no agreement was reached, as AS Roma ultimately decided to keep the player.

Shomurodov, 29 years old, has seen limited playing time this season under Roma’s new manager, Claudio Ranieri. Despite making 19 appearances, he has played less than 500 minutes, scoring three goals and providing one assist.

Toronto FC viewed him as an ideal attacking reinforcement, but Ranieri publicly stated that the club wants to retain Shomurodov as part of their squad, shutting down any chance of a move to MLS.