MLS to the Copa Libertadores in 2 years

ESPN Deporte's Fútbol Picante is reporting tonight that MLS and CONCACAF have worked out a deal which will allow MLS to set up it's own InterLiga-like tournament to determine a sole MLS participant in the 2011 Copa Libertadores. This would happen after the current Interliga deal with Soccer United Marketing an arm of MLS, expires. This is groundbreaking news for MLS fans if true, as the CopaLibertadores is the 2nd most prestigious club tournament in the world after UEFA's Champion's League. Even more to the point, the kind of travel the tournament will require may potentially, cause MLS to consider raising the salary cap significantly in the lead-up to it so that MLS clubs can increase their depth and quality. This makes sense and dovetails with something we had be hearing about a major increase of the salary cap which at least for now is on hold until the next Collective Bargaining Agreement is worked out.