The USMNT Transfer Notebook tracks American player movements, with latest developments for those in the U.S. national team pool
With most European summer transfer windows opening next week, the buildup to several major moves is accelerating, including for players on the U.S. men’s national team.
There are moves that have been speculated for weeks inching toward the finish line, such as Johnny Cardoso's long-awaited move to Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid. And then there are deals that have seemingly emerged out of nowhere, such as Malik Tillman being linked with Bayer Leverkusen.
And other moves hang in the balance, such as Matt Turner's reported transfter to Lyon – especially as the seven-time Ligue 1 champions have been shockingly relegated to Ligue 2.
The most exciting part? There's more to come. The window opens July 1, and several World Cup hopefuls are looking for moves to boost their chances of making Mauricio Pochettino's 26-man roster for the 2026 tournament being held in North America.
GOAL tracks all of the American player movements in the USMNT Transfer Notebook, a recurring feature covering the latest developments for those in the U.S. national team pool.
Getty ImagesWirtz's replacement is … Malik Tillman?
Tillman is in the midst of a breakout run for the U.S., scoring his first three goals for the national team in its opening three Gold Cup matches. He's also arguably been the Eredivisie's best player in the past two years, helping PSV lift two domestic titles in that stretch. Here's a player who has boundless potential, being compared to a peak Dele Alli as a result. It appears as if one of the biggest clubs in Germany is taking notice.
Bayer Leverkusen, in search of a No. 10 after losing superstar playmaker Florian Wirtz to Liverpool, have reportedly earmarked the 23-year-old as his successor. It is widely reported that the club, which won the Bundesliga in 2024 to end Bayern's stranglehold on the trophy, is willing to pay Tillman's $46 million (€40 million) exit clause. The move could be a massive step up for Tillman. But it is not without risks.
All Tillman has to do is look at his current teammate Ricardo Pepi, who made a high-profile move from MLS to Augsburg in 2022 a few months away from the World Cup, and struggled to make an impact.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportHere's Johnny … in Madrid?
Cardoso has been linked with Atletico Madrid for what feels like forever, and has gained strong traction in the last month. And for good reason. He's a defensive midfielder who being combative and initiating attacks from those plays. Sounds right up Simeone's alley.
After months of speculation, reports suggest that this long-running saga will finally come to a close with the Betis star near the finish line in heading to the Spanish capital. According to Fabrizio Romano, Atleti have come to an agreement with on a package reportedly centered around a $34.9 million (€30 million) transfer fee. GiveMeSport is reporting the deal will likely happen by the end of the week.
Cardoso is currently with the U.S. national team for the Gold Cup, where he's made two appearances off the bench. Stay tuned.
Getty ImagesTurner's deal to Lyon in jeopardy?
Turner's reported move to Lyon appeared to be the perfect fit for the 2022 USMNT World Cup starter in goal. Until it wasn't.
Lyon have been shockingly relegated following financial issues, with the club now set to appeal a decision that could have major implications for all – including Turner. The 31-year-old is desperate for playing time after essentially two seasons in which he hasn't seen much of it. It is crucial for him to challenge for the starting position on the USMNT. If Lyon's relegation is confirmed, playing in Ligue 2 isn't going to likely change much for the former Revolution star.
Despite all of those factors, Tom Bogert reports nothing has changed for Turner. But things could change if Lyon's relegation is upheld. It is also important to note that promising American midfielder Tanner Tessmann also suits up for OL. The decision on Lyon could determine the future for both Americans.
Getty ImagesTeams lining up for Agyemang
Patrick Agyemang recently broke a mini-cold spell with his goals against Trinidad and Tobago and Haiti in the Gold Cup. More than just CONCACAF fans were watching. A host of European clubs are chasing the 24-year-old's signature, with Genk and Derby said to be the strongest contenders.
Bogert is reporting Genk's interest in Agyemang is serious, while Romano reports the striker has given the green light for Derby to sign him. Agyemang, who plays for Charlotte FC in MLS, may see his upward trajectory continue across the Atlantic.