Emil Gazdov linked with MLS clubs and Bochum - Pacific FC keeper was voted best in CPL

Pacific FC goalkeeper Emil Gazdov is in high demand, with Canadian Major League Soccer sides Vancouver Whitecaps, Toronto FC, and CF Montréal showing interest in the 21-year-old, sources have told Transfermarkt. Gazdov, who just received the Golden Glove award as the best Canadian Premier League goalkeeper of the 2024 season has options beyond the three Canadian MLS teams, however. 

Several other MLS teams are interested in signing Gazdov, who is still under contract with Pacific FC until the end of the 2025 season with an option for one additional year. Those MLS teams will have to act fast. Transfermarkt understands that Pacific FC have been approached by a club several European club including one from Portugal. Pacific FC also have a partnership with Bundesliga side VfL Bochum. VfL Bochum had representatives in Victoria for a visit this month and were impressed by Gazdov’s size and abilities, especially for his age. 

The interest in Gazdov isn’t surprising. The Pacific FC goalkeeper led the CPL with nine clean sheets in 21 games in 2024 (overview). Gazdov was also among the players to be upgraded in the CPL October market value update, becoming the most valuable goalkeeper in the league (overview). “It feels good to see him come towards his potential,” Pacific FC head coach James Merriman said to Transfermakt in July when asked about Gazdov’s development this season. “And that’s our vision as a club: to give opportunities to young players and use this league as a platform.” 

MLS clubs and Bochum want Gazdov - Previously trained with Nürnberg

Gazdov’s potential has been evident for some time. Pacific FC signed Gazdov in June 2020 but then loaned him to 2. Bundesliga team 1.FC Nürnberg. Gazdov would stay with Nürnberg for over a year before returning to British Columbia and claiming the no.1 spot at Pacific FC. That experience in Germany is considered an upside, with clubs scouting him now. His Bulgarian passport, which makes a transfer to an EU country easier, has also been noted. 

Sources have also told Transfermarkt that Canada Soccer has taken note of Gazdov. The Canadian men’s national team is holding a camp in January for North American-based players, and Gazdov could be one of the goalkeepers called up by head coach Jesse Marsch. Such a call-up without a doubt would only increase interest in Gazdov.