Perfect Transfer Matches for USMNT Stars: Reyna, Weah, Luna, Musah, and More!

Recently, Bayer Leverkusen announced the signing of American midfielder Malik Tillman. At just 23 years old, he showcased impressive performance during his two seasons at PSV Eindhoven, netting 24 goals and providing 15 assists across 68 matches. This summer, he also shone for the US men’s national team in the Gold Cup and friendly matches, scoring three goals and assisting on three occasions in eight appearances. His signing is being hailed as a significant addition to Leverkusen’s revamped offense.

Tillman has the chance to further elevate his national team prospects ahead of the 2026 World Cup. He is expected to take on a crucial role in the central offensive midfield position within US manager Mauricio Pochettino’s favored 4-2-3-1 formation, which could set the stage for a strong season with the Bundesliga champions.

In the lead-up to the World Cup, there will likely be many shifts within the US squad. A number of players are poised to secure starting spots, given their experiences and skills, including left-back Antonee Robinson, right-back Sergiño Dest, midfielders Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie, and winger Christian Pulisic. However, with limited roster spots for the 26-player squad next summer, the competition among players will be fierce.

Seven national team members are currently eyeing potential moves to secure a place in the lineup for the 2026 World Cup. If they do change clubs soon, what would their ideal choices be?

Current team: Juventus

Tim Weah, aged 25, started all four matches for the US in the 2022 World Cup, scoring the opening goal against Wales, yet has faced challenges since Mauricio Pochettino took over as manager in September. He encountered hamstring injuries during the 2024-25 season, leading to inconsistent appearances across various positions.

Weah has shown he can score and press effectively as both a forward and a winger, although he hasn’t excelled in any single role. In his time with Juventus, he has logged 3,716 minutes over two seasons, contributing seven goals and six assists, but remains an all-around solid yet unremarkable player.

Under new manager Igor Tudor, Weah started only three of his last 13 matches, primarily playing in Tudor’s 3-4-2-1 setup. Although a deal was on the table with Nottingham Forest, he declined that offer, and talks with Marseille are underway.

Marseille presents an intriguing opportunity, as manager Roberto de Zerbi employed both 3-4-2-1 and 4-2-3-1 formations last season, which fits Weah’s adaptable skill set. Ideally, his best position would be as a right midfielder or wing-back in a three-center-back setup, aligning well with Pochettino’s approach.

If rumors are true about Inter Milan transferring Denzel Dumfries to Manchester City, it could open up a great option for Weah. However, if that doesn’t materialize, Marseille remains a solid alternative.

Current team: Borussia Dortmund

The most challenging aspect of analyzing Gio Reyna is his age; at only 22, his promising career has been hampered by injuries. Focusing solely on his stats, he boasts 5,762 minutes, 19 goals, and 14 assists before turning 23, highlighting his potential.

Injuries have limited his playing time, and he has struggled in recent seasons, logging just 1,218 club minutes over the past two years as he shifted to an attacking midfielder role from the left wing. His standout performance in the 2020-21 season was marked by seven goals and six assists in 2,699 minutes, showcasing what he can achieve when healthy.

For Reyna to make a mark in the 2026 World Cup, he must secure consistent playing time. Currently, Borussia Dortmund may not provide that opportunity. He could explore options in MLS, where teams like New York City FC and others could benefit from his skills, or even move to Bundesliga clubs like Borussia Mönchengladbach that play a similar style.

As long as he stays healthy, he has the potential to thrive alongside midfielders like Rocco Reitz. Ultimately, finding a team that offers him regular playtime will be essential for his development.

Current team: AC Milan

Musa was a key player for the USMNT during the 2022 World Cup preparation, but he faces a similar challenge to Weah and Reyna. Noted for his dribbling and defensive prowess, Musa has played various roles, though playing as a right winger may not be his strongest suit.

At just 22, Musa excels in dribbling and earning fouls. Milan’s new manager, Max Allegri, has utilized him on the right wing and in a deeper role, taking advantage of team formations. However, Allegri often hesitates to rely on youth, which has led to rumors of Musa being linked to several clubs, including Nottingham Forest and Napoli.

Staying at Milan may not be detrimental, especially if he can secure more playing time in the first team.

Current team: Real Salt Lake

Apart from goalkeeper Matt Freeze, no player has boosted the national team’s profile like Luna this summer. The 21-year-old has thrived in the MLS season with eight goals and four assists, stepping up during Christian Pulisic’s absence. His impressive performance in the Gold Cup saw him lead the US team with three goals and tie for second in assists.

After his standout performance this summer, transfer speculation surrounding Luna has surged, with multiple European clubs expressing interest, particularly La Liga’s Celta Vigo. Despite uncertainties, Luna has showcased his potential and may not necessarily need to leave MLS for national team visibility.

Current team: PSV Eindhoven

Analyzing Pepi’s performance demands a detailed perspective. He has accumulated strong scoring stats playing with a dominant side in a goal-friendly league. However, his role at PSV has seen him primarily as a substitute, managing 1,486 minutes in competitive matches over two seasons, despite starting just eight times.

With 22 goals and six assists in these limited appearances, Pepi has demonstrated capability, though his scoring average may diminish elsewhere. His experience at Augsburg was challenging, but it allowed him to create chances, emphasizing his potential.

play

Robson: USMNT struggles at the World Cup

Stewart Robson believes the USMNT could face difficulties at the upcoming World Cup following a lackluster Gold Cup finale.

Talks have circulated about Pepi moving to clubs like Fulham. However, with Tillman now joining PSV, Luuk de Jong’s contract ending, and Pepi recovering from meniscus surgery, it might be wise for him to regain his form in this accommodating environment. A strong season could see him return to prominence in the Champions League and solidify his place on the World Cup roster.

Current team: Venezia

Bucio has accumulated significant experience at just 23, breaking into professional soccer at 16. Now, he has logged over 12,000 minutes on the pitch. Playing in the defensive midfield position for Venezia last season, he contributed extensively across various stats, proving his durability despite being 5-foot-7 and 143 pounds.

Currently, Venezia has been relegated again, but Bucio has proven his worth at the Serie A level, leading to speculation about moves to clubs like Udinese. Though he may not yet be ready for a top-tier team, he could add valuable depth to a mid-table club. With several interesting options available for the US midfield—including Tyler Adams and others—Bucio remains a formidable option as long as he stays in the top division.

Current team: Orlando City

Freeman might currently be the most exciting prospect in the US player pool at just 20 years old. As a starting player for Orlando City, he has impressed enough to earn call-ups for the national team, starting all Gold Cup matches. He has added significantly to his club’s offense, tallying four goals and two assists.

While he faced some challenges with the national team, his potential is undeniable, as shown by his touches and defensive interventions during games.

Speculation about his future is growing, with rumors of interest from clubs like Parma. However, given his relatively short professional career, it may be wise for him to remain in Orlando to continue his development.