European Powerhouses Battle for USMNT Star in Massive Transfer Showdown
Current Italian title holders Napoli are reportedly targeting U.S. men's national team midfielder Yunus Musah for a potential summer acquisition.
Following Musah's transfer to Milan alongside USMNT skipper Christian Pulisic before the 2023–24 campaign, he signed a contract with the Rossoneri extending through 2028. Now, just two seasons later, the 22-year-old finds himself amid transfer rumors.
Italian sports journalist Gianluca Di Marzio indicates that Napoli have renewed their pursuit of Musah. Communication between the player and the club has remained "continuous" throughout recent months, as the Azzurri seek to bolster their midfield options before the transfer deadline.
Milan is anticipated to demand €30 million ($35 million) for Musah despite his somewhat erratic performances. The former Valencia talent showed flashes of excellence at San Siro, but he frequently found himself relegated to the substitutes' bench following a series of disappointing displays during 2024–25.
Given the Rossoneri's acquisitions of Luka Modrić, Samuele Ricci and Ardon Jashari this summer, Musah's already restricted playing time will probably diminish further. Should the American desire regular minutes next season, he'll be considering a departure, and joining the Italian champions under Antonio Conte could prove an irresistible opportunity.
Additionally, it serves the USMNT's interests for Musah to be in a situation that facilitates his development before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 22-year-old began promisingly under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, contributing a goal and assist across his initial four matches, but subsequently struggled in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals and third-place fixture.
Musah was also absent from the 2025 Gold Cup roster, choosing to withdraw from the competition alongside nearly all of the Stars and Stripes' regular starters. The USMNT proceeded to claim second place, falling short against Mexico.
Even a talent with Musah's potential will find it challenging to secure a spot in Pochettino's formation next summer without consistent club performances—as evidenced by Gio Reyna and Matt Turner's situations.