None of the figures involved in the negotiations wanted to comment.

However, one source familiar with the discussions said the sides have been “talking for some time.” Another source cautioned that talks are promising but could take a turn.

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Hamid is United’s career goalkeeping leader in appearances, victories, shutouts and saves.

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If the Annandale, Va., native plays out his contract this year, he would not be eligible for MLS free agency. (A player must be 28 years old with eight years of service in the league.) To remain in MLS, he would have to re-enter talks with United or seek a trade with fresh negotiations.

A move abroad without a transfer fee would allow United to retain his MLS rights.

Hamid seemed destined for Europe by this stage of his career, with United willing to entertain transfer offers. But surgery on Hamid’s right knee each of the past two winters preempted U.S. national team assignments during MLS’s offseason and, consequently, inhibited his broader ambitions.

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Without U.S. appearances, Hamid has had to prove his value to potential suitors in MLS exclusively. He is, though, in the mix for selection to the CONCACAF Gold Cup squad this summer as Coach Bruce Arena is likely to summon several secondary candidates. Arena has spoken highly of Hamid in the past.