Clint Dempsey says decision on loan could come within the next week

Clint Dempsey seems to have been making the most of his offseason so far, most recently showing up in Kansas City for pre-MLS Cup festivities and being one of the U.S. players making the rounds on the interview circuit in the aftermath of the World Cup draw. But his offseason could be over soon.

Talking to ESPN, Dempsey said that he thinks his loan situation could be finalized as early as next week. He could theoretically start training with the team in the next week or two and would likely be eligible to start playing when the transfer window opens on Jan. 1, 2014. The expectation is that he'd be back right around the Seattle Sounders's season opener March 8.

All the rumors have been linking Dempsey to English clubs. Among those that seem interested are Everton, Aston Villa, Newcastle, Tottenham and Fulham. Basically, he's been linked to a lot of teams, so it's really a guessing game.

But this is just the latest indication it's a matter of where he goes, not if he goes. The Sounders have given no indication that they are trying to stop him from going out on loan and there's a clause in his contract that permits him to do this.