The negotiations between MLS and the MLS Players Union on a new collective bargaining agreement continue to inch along, according to a source with knowledge of the situation.
The two sides met in New York City this week with a federal mediator present, and according to the source were able to find agreement on minor issues such as moving expenses when players switch teams as well as compensation for public appearances. This latter item includes charitable appearances as well as those on behalf of MLS and its clubs.
The source added that there was no movement on the big issues of player compensation and free agency, but that is consistent with what Columbus Crew defender Michael Parkhurst told ESPN FC via text message last Sunday. Parkhurst wrote that the two sides would focus on smaller issues this week and then attempt to tackle the major items in the last two weeks before the start of the season.
Out of those two issues, free agency remains the biggest stumbling block, with several players indicating that the MLSPU is prepared to go on strike if the issue isn't resolved.
The previous CBA expired on Jan. 31, but the aim now is to reach an agreement before the start of the MLS regular season on March 6.