As the transfer window deadline approaches on August 6 things are starting to heat up in MLS and in Chicago. Those of you hungry for Fire news will be interested to learn that the local club has rekindled interest in USMNT midfielder Jermaine Jones over the last two days. According to sources, the Fire are one of several clubs courting Jones and are seriously looking to add him as a Designated Player.

Jones would reportedly command a salary somewhere in the $1.5-2 million range and would seem to be a fit for the Fire's DP budget. The fact that he's a natural center midfielder, and the Fire aren't lacking in that position after signing Razdan Cocis, is a bit curious however. Acquiring Jones would seemingly create a log jam at that position with Cocis, Jeff Larentowicz, Matt Watson, Chris Ritter, Benji Joya, and Logan Pause all on the roster. No one in that lot including Jones would be considered consistent offensive threats so a move of this nature would still leave the forward/attacking spots in need of an upgrade. A trade within the league could help resolve that matter.

Making things even more intriguing was the Los Angeles Galaxy's move to trade allocation spots with DC United this morning. LA sent defender Kofi Opare along with a second round pick to DC in exchange for a swap up to the #3 spot in the allocation order. It seems LA might be interested in Jones via this move but they could also be eyeing another returning USMNT player in this window. Either way, everyone will be interested to watch how Los Angeles maneuvers cap space to add another significant piece to their roster.

While nothing has been finalized and negotiations are always fluid when it comes to transfer window dealings, the Fire are apparently serious about Jermaine Jones. Other targets had been the main focus but a shift to Jones is recent. How and if they can fit him in along with other possible trades will make for good transfer window banter.

UPDATE (4:45 cdt)

As reported here weeks ago, the Fire have been looking to move Dilly Duka. They found a trade partner today in the Montreal Impact. Duka is on his way to Montreal in exchange for midfielder Sanna Nyassi.

The move clears some cap/budget space with Duka slated to make $190,00.00 guaranteed in 2014 and Nyassi making $154,625.00 per the latest MLSPU report.

Nyassi has been recovering from an ankle injury and has only appeared in 4 games this season.