Robert Lewandowski brings global star power to Chicago

Robert Lewandowski is coming to Chicago Fire FC in a blockbuster signing widely viewed as the biggest MLS acquisition since Inter Miami landed Lionel Messi.

Why it matters: Lewandowski instantly raises the Fire's MLS Cup hopes and gives the city one of the world's biggest soccer stars.

The big picture: The signing comes at a time when the World Cup has elevated local interest in the sport, even if the city isn't hosting matches.

Context: Lewandowski is considered one of the best strikers to ever play the game. The 37-year-old has scored more than 700 career goals; has won multiple league titles with soccer heavyweights like Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona; and he's Poland's all-time leading scorer.

The intrigue: The Fire have steadily raised expectations after reaching the MLS playoffs last season and are in third place in the Eastern Conference.

What they're saying: "From the day Joe Mansueto and I met for the first time, we set out to build a world-class Club that inspires greatness, unites Chicago and wins championships," Fire head coach Gregg Berhalter said in a release.

By the numbers: The Fire have not said what Lewandowski is being paid, but multiple reports indicate he may be the second-highest-paid player in MLS behind Messi.

Between the lines: Lewandowski also arrives in a city with the nation's largest Polish population, giving the club a natural opportunity to connect with one of Chicago's signature communities.

Zoom out: The Fire are making headlines. The Lewandowski news comes after the Fire broke ground on a new privately funded stadium in the South Loop.

Yes, but: While the stadium is privately funded, the team and Mayor Brandon Johnson are pushing for taxpayer-funded infrastructure improvements.

The bottom line: The stadium represents the Fire's long-term ambitions. Lewandowski is about winning now.