Report: MLS and players' union closer to free-agency resolution, but still far from deal

With less than a week to go before the start of the MLS season, the league and players' union appear to be close to resolving their free-agency issue, according to Jeff Carlisle of ESPNFC.

Other reports, however, have surfaced indicating that the two sides are nowhere near a deal and that the salary cap issue is becoming far more contentious. Carlisle has confirmed this report, adding that the owners have offered an eight-year deal.

The union has threatened to strike if some form of free agency for players is not included in the new collective bargaining agreement. The league has been against free agency in any form.

However, a source told Carlisle that the current offer includes an amendment that would allow players who've played at least eight seasons or are age 28 or older the right to choose their next market.

The player's current team would not be allowed to make a nominal pay increase offer in an effort to keep the player.

The season is scheduled to start Friday, with the LA Galaxy facing the Chicago Fire.