D.C. United Make £500k Bid for FCSB’s Mihai Lixandru Amid European Interest

D.C. United have made an approach for FCSB midfielder Mihai Lixandru, but the Romanian international is currently prioritising a move elsewhere in Europe, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The Major League Soccer outfit are looking to strengthen its squad ahead of the second half of the season and has identified the 24-year-old as a player capable of adding quality and depth in midfield.

However, despite the American club's interest, Lixandru's immediate preference is to continue his career in Europe, creating a significant obstacle in D.C. United's pursuit of the highly-rated midfielder.

D.C. United Make Their Move

SportsBoom understands that D.C. United have already taken concrete steps to land Lixandru.

A source close to the negotiations, Lorenzo Lapore, has revealed that the MLS club have submitted an offer worth approximately £500,000 to Romanian champions FCSB in an attempt to secure the midfielder's services.

While discussions remain ongoing, the proposal has yet to convince either the player or his representatives that a move to the United States is the right next step.

Lapore has informed SportsBoom that Lixandru is not actively considering a switch to Major League Soccer at this stage, with his focus instead firmly on remaining in European football.

Although the player's position could evolve should negotiations progress or improved terms be presented, his current stance has complicated D.C. United's efforts to complete a deal.

European Clubs Circle Midfielder

Lixandru's desire to remain in Europe is understandable given the growing level of interest he is attracting across the continent.

SportsBoom understands that Belgian heavyweights Anderlecht are among the clubs monitoring his situation, while Swiss sides Thun and Lucerne have also expressed interest.

Austrian giants Rapid Vienna are another club keeping close tabs on the Romanian international as they assess potential midfield reinforcements ahead of the new campaign.

Interest is not limited to Europe either, with a club from Saudi Arabia also expressing its admiration for the FCSB midfielder.

With several clubs tracking his progress, competition for Lixandru's signature is becoming increasingly competitive, giving the player a range of options as he considers his next move.

For D.C. United to change the current picture, they may need to improve both the financial package presented to FCSB and the sporting project offered to the player.

As things stand, the European clubs appear to be in the strongest position, although no agreement has yet been reached with any interested side.

Impressive Season Raises Stock

Lixandru's growing reputation has been built on an impressive 2025-26 campaign with FCSB.

The midfielder has established himself as an important figure for the Romanian champions, making more than 30 appearances in all competitions while contributing four goals and two assists.

His consistent performances have not gone unnoticed, and with multiple clubs now weighing up a move, the coming weeks are expected to prove pivotal in determining where the Romanian international continues his career.