USMNT Star Striker Smashes Transfer Records as Timothy Weah Eyes His Own Blockbuster Move
Derby County have officially announced the signing of United States national team forward Patrick Agyemang from Charlotte FC in a transfer that has received positive reception from the MLS franchise.
Agyemang joined Charlotte through the draft in 2022 and accumulated 22 goals across 72 matches during his two-and-a-half-year stint. The 24-year-old striker experienced a standout 2024 season and had netted six goals this campaign before linking up with the USMNT squad for the summer's Gold Cup tournament.
Despite missing several key players from their roster, Agyemang remained a consistent starter, finding the back of the net twice as Mauricio Pochettino's team reached the championship match. Derby's pursuit of the player predated the competition and has now been completed through a transfer potentially worth £7.3 million ($9.8 million).
Head coach Dean Smith previously attempted to dismiss speculation, stating earlier this month that transfer discussions "has been pushed more by his representative than the actual player". However, Charlotte's general manager Zoran Krneta expressed enthusiasm when the transfer was officially confirmed.
"To complete a deal it must serve the club's interests primarily, but also benefit the player, and in this instance, it accomplishes both objectives," he stated on Charlotte's official website. "He represents the first player in our organization's history to progress through our development system and be transferred for a multi-million-dollar fee.
"Patrick demonstrates exceptional professionalism and has merited this chance through his commitment and effort during training sessions since arriving at Charlotte FC. The entire organization extends best wishes for his success at Derby County, with the United States Men's National Team as they prepare for the World Cup, and throughout his future career."
Agyemang is not the sole USMNT attacker changing clubs this summer. Timothy Weah has been consistently connected with a potential departure. Following speculation about interest from Premier League side Nottingham Forest, Fabrizio Romano indicates that French powerhouse Olympique Marseille are conducting "advanced talks" with Juventus concerning a loan arrangement that could become a permanent transfer next summer.
This reflects the ongoing trend of American forwards switching teams this summer. Malik Tillman completed Bayer Leverkusen's most costly signing earlier this month and speculation has even emerged regarding Christian Pulisic potentially leaving AC Milan. This movement appears motivated by players' final attempts to secure positions in Pochettino's first-choice lineup for next summer's domestic World Cup.