Forward Madison midfielder Michael Vang will train with the Chicago Fire of Major League Soccer during preseason, the clubs announced Sunday. Vang, 20, was the Flamingos’ top scorer in 2020, notching four goals in 13 games.

Vang’s addition to Chicago’s preseason roster comes as part of a partnership between the Flamingos and the Fire, which was announced in 2020 and will continue this year. Vang is still under contract with Forward Madison, having re-signed in November after a breakout campaign.

“I’m really excited to show what I’m capable of doing and give a good impression on the coaches over there,” Vang said. “This partnership has been really important for myself and the club. They kept tabs on guys over here last season and Madison gave me a chance to showcase what I’ve got on the field.”

Head coach Carl Craig, who is preparing for his first season in Madison, will also spend time in the Fire’s camp. Vang is the second Forward Madison player to have practiced with Chicago, joining current Flamingos defender Christian Díaz, who trained with the Fire a year ago.

The Fire are set to kick off their season in early April, while Forward Madison will begin its preseason in late March ahead of a planned May 8 start date.

“I think it’s a really good step In the right direction,” Vang said. “It’s MLS so the level’s going to be higher and the expectations are going to be higher, but I feel ready for it.”