This should probably be filed under "things we already knew", but via Jack Bell and the New York Time Goal blog comes confirmation that Major League Soccer isn't interested in buying the United Soccer Leagues.

MLS inquired, but determined that Nike's asking price as well as complications that might arise from the purchase (perhaps including unwanted pressure from FIFA to institute a promotion/relegation system) did not put it in the league's best interest to add the USL's six division setup.

The question of who may be in a position, or have a desire, to buy the league may be answered in the next several weeks. Miami FC owner Traffic is rumored to be interested; the Brazilian sports even management company could expand their role in the league to that of owner/operator.

It would appear that we can completely put to rest any thoughts that a farm system or promotion/relegation (as unlikely as it was even if MLS purchased USL) are coming to American soccer anytime soon. If Traffic is indeed the front runner to obtain USL, the league should be in good hands; Traffic has shown a willingness to invest in the product, even as Miami FC has had significant financial struggles this year.

What is unclear is what, if any, changes in the relationship between MLS and USL would result from the sale. If MLS will not be buying their biggest competition, it's imperative that they attempt to reopen the lines of communication and work out a mutually beneficial working partnership with USL (specifically USL-1).