Toronto FC (TFC) is actively preparing for the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with pre-season training underway in Marbella, Spain [1, 8, 9]. However, the club's focus extends beyond training, as they are reportedly pursuing U.S. Men's National Team striker Josh Sargent, whose situation at Norwich City has become increasingly tense [4, 6, 7].
Sargent Saga Intensifies
The potential acquisition of Josh Sargent has been a major talking point surrounding Toronto FC [4, 7, 13]. Reports indicate that Sargent may have played his last game for Norwich City following a heated exchange with club officials [6, 10, 13]. The disagreement reportedly stemmed from a remark about his family [10]. Sources suggest Sargent is determined to leave Norwich and favors a move to Toronto FC [7, 10]. However, former USMNT legend Brad Friedel has questioned whether a move to MLS is the best option for Sargent at this stage of his career [3, 5]. Despite the questions, the Reds have reportedly offered $18 million for the striker [13].
Pre-Season Roster and Canadian Championship
Toronto FC's pre-season roster includes 32 players, with 24 under First Team contracts and two from Toronto FC II [1, 9, 12]. Among those included is Hugo Mbongue [1, 12]. TFC will face Atlético Ottawa in the preliminary round of the 2026 TELUS Canadian Championship [2]. Meanwhile, Toronto FC II has traded three 2026 International Roster Slots to Red Bull New York II for an undisclosed fee, leaving them with four slots [14, 15]. TFC continues its pre-season in Spain, playing exhibition games before returning home in mid-February [8].
TL;DR
- Toronto FC is actively pursuing USMNT striker Josh Sargent amid a reported dispute between the player and Norwich City [4, 10, 13].
- TFC's pre-season roster features 32 players as the team prepares in Marbella, Spain [1, 9, 12].
- Toronto FC II traded three international roster slots to Red Bull New York II ahead of the 2026 season [14, 15].
- Toronto FC will compete against Atlético Ottawa in the preliminary round of the 2026 TELUS Canadian Championship [2].