SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes are facing major outside interest in their star striker, but no move is close. According to reporter César Luis Merlo (@clmerlo5), Pumas UNAM entered advanced negotiations to acquire forward Chicho Arango, with the player giving the green light for a potential move to Liga MX. However, a new update from Tom Bogert reports that San Jose has rejected Pumas’ opening bid, which was around $3 million. Arango remains under contract through 2026, with the Earthquakes holding a team option for 2027, giving the club full control over his future.
Arango quickly became one of San Jose’s most impactful players this season, carrying the attack and establishing himself among MLS’s elite finishers. His approval of a move cleared one major hurdle for Pumas, but San Jose’s decision to decline the offer signals they are not ready to let him go, at least not at the current price.
For the Earthquakes, losing Arango would create an immediate and massive void — goals, leadership, and a true match-changer in the final third. Rejecting the first bid suggests the club either wants to keep him or would only consider a deal at a significantly higher number.
Pumas remain highly interested and view Arango as a centerpiece for their frontline, but for now, talks have stalled at the bid stage. While discussions could re-open if Pumas returns with a stronger offer, there is no agreement and no advanced move toward a transfer at this time.
Arango’s contract length gives the Quakes full leverage, meaning any transfer would require a major number to even bring them to the table.
.png)
