Kaka First to Top $7 Million in MLS Earnings

Kaka is set to be Major League Soccer's highest-paid player with a base salary of $6.6 million from Orlando City, according to figures released Monday by the players' union.

Including a prorated share of compensation not specified to a specific year, the Brazilian attacker's total earnings rise to a league-record $7,167,500.

Orlando starts play next season, along with New York City FC. The previous MLS high for total earnings was set by David Beckham of the Los Angeles Galaxy at $6.5 million annually during a five-year contract that ended in 2011.

Seattle forward Clint Dempsey dropped to second in total earnings at $6,695,000, followed by Toronto midfielder Michael Bradley at $6.5 million and Toronto forward Jermain Defoe at $6.18 million.

Among the American players who signed with MLS after the World Cup, midfielder Jermaine Jones has a $3 million salary with New England and total earnings of $3,252,500.

Defender Liam Ridgewell, who left West Bromwich Albion to sign with Portland, has a $1.2 million salary.