Major League Soccer has ordered Orlando City to cease pursuit of AC Milan’s Antonio Nocerino because D.C. United has exclusive league rights to negotiate with the Italian midfielder, the Insider has learned from multiple sources.
United last month filed a discovery claim, a mechanism preventing other MLS teams from contacting the player or engaging in negotiations.
General Manager Dave Kasper and managing general partner Jason Levien met with Nocerino in Milan last week. Initial reports suggested Nocerino probably would not end up signing with United. However, the club has remained in contact with the player’s representatives and, according to one source, was encouraged by recent discussions.