The MLS was formed in December 1993 and has already gone through several transformations in its short history. One constant throughout the 26-year run of the league has been the tendency to buy players from abroad much more regularly than selling off local assets developed in the United States.
The trend of big spending on players abroad is highlighted by LA Galaxy's purchase of David Beckham, a deal which saw the Englishman earn over $250m. MLS clubs have been known to purchase a big star in the twilight of his career in order to fill seats and create buzz around the team.