Barcelona Looking to Buy MLS Franchise for Miami

''The idea is to set up an investment company involving FC Barcelona and a Bolivian entrepreneur living in Miami, Marcelo Claure, who is the chief of an investment group featuring Americans and citizens of different South American countries,'' the club revealed in a statement.  ''Claure is already the owner of FC Bolivar, with whom FC Barcelona already collaborate. The company's aim right now is present an application for a franchise and promote it to the MLS.  The company's sole aim right now is present an application for a franchise and promote it to MLS," the Barca statement continued. "If the candidature is successful, the company will become a reality, otherwise it will fold."

At present there are 14 teams in MLS with expansion plans to see the league grow to 16 with new franchises in Seattle and Philadelphia joining the league the next 2 seasons.   MLS wants new franchises to play at 'soccer-specific' venues, stadia specifically built for the game,  and Barcelona have said they have already held talks with Florida International University to build.

''The most likely solution will be Florida International University, with whom negotiations are already at a late stage as the potential club seeks to use the facility for at least the first two years of its existence,'' the club said.

If successful in its bid Barcelona are expected to name to the Miami franchise after the Catalan club itself, and will view the MLS as an opportunity to expand the Barcelona brand into the United States.  Miami, and the state of Florida, have been without an  MLS squad since 2001 when both the Miami Fusion and Tampa Bay Mutiny franchises lost their places as the league was downsized.  The Fusion were founded in 1998 but failed to establish itself, with many citing the fact that the club's stadium was based in the neighbouring city of Fort Lauderdale, a long journey for the urban Latin community the league had hoped to attract.  Many cities are expected to bid for new MLS franchises. Atlanta, Portland, St. Louis, Vancouver and Ottawa are looking to bid for one of the new MLS franchises.