D.C. United hosted Mesut Özil’s agent in Washington on Wednesday, as they attempt to convince the playmaker to move to the MLS next year.

The Washington Post report that D.C. United have begun their pursuit of the Arsenal midfielder as a replacement for the star squad spot currently held by Wayne Rooney. Club executives Jason Levien and Sam Porter met with agent Erkut Sogut on Wednesday.

The American outlet wouldn’t reveal their source, stating that they “requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter”. It seems as if the information is reliable though.

As The Washington Post admit, Özil has a business connection to D.C. United, as the owner of 39 Steps Coffee. The company is looking to open a branch at Audi Field, D.C. United’s ground.

Nonetheless, the report suggests the meeting with Özil’s agent was about more than just his coffee business. D.C. United wanted to sign him this winter, but they believe next summer is a more realistic time to push a move through.

Özil is yet to return to the pitch for Arsenal competitively this season, with the off-field problems he’s having at the moment. Ideally, he’ll return soon and prove himself too indispensable to sell to the MLS.