These Two United States Soccer Stars Could Be On The Move
Two United States soccer stars could be on the move soon. Let’s get right into it.
Christian Pulisic
Due to limited opportunities on the field and ongoing fitness issues stemming from a knee injury, Christian Pulisic of Chelsea may be considering a transfer to AC Milan.
Christian Pulisic has seen limited playing time with Chelsea this season, as new owner Todd Boehly prevented him from leaving the club. However, Italy’s AC Milan may provide a new opportunity for the American. Previously linked to Juventus and Newcastle United, Pulisic’s recent injury has cooled interest in him.
However, as Chelsea continues to add more attacking players, Pulisic’s path to playing time is becoming increasingly uncertain. Milan, who are currently out of the Scudetto race due to Napoli’s strong form, sees Pulisic as a potential boost to their attack, and the opportunity to reunite him with former Chelsea teammates.
Is Milan The Right Spot?
Pulisic’s move to AC Milan could be beneficial for his club career as the Serie A league has been known for open, attacking play in recent seasons, similar to what Pulisic has experienced with Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund. Additionally, Milan is expected to qualify for the Champions League, allowing Pulisic to continue playing at a high level. While the team already has a high-priced attacker, Charles De Ketelaere, his role as a number 10 could complement Pulisic’s playing style rather than hinder it. However, it is unlikely that Pulisic will be joined by Sergino Dest, as the club is not expected to activate his purchase option.
Additionally, Pulisic’s recent injury may delay a move to Milan, but the club may want to secure a deal before other teams, such as Newcastle, have a chance to do so. Despite the potential cost of the transfer being lower in the summer due to Pulisic having only one year left on his contract, a move to AC Milan would be a positive outcome for his future.
Weston McKennie
Leeds United, led by Jesse Marsch, is looking to strengthen the team in order to avoid relegation and have been active in the January transfer window, adding defender Max Wober and forward Georginio Rutter. The team is also reportedly interested in obtaining United States international Weston McKennie from Juventus. With Juventus currently facing uncertainty and a financial deduction, McKennie may be open to a move to the right destination.
Leeds United has been linked to McKennie, along with multiple other Premier League teams such as Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Arsenal, and Tottenham. McKennie is familiar with fellow American teammates Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams, who he has played with on the national team. It is not clear if a move to Leeds United would be the best decision for him.
Weston McKennie leaving Juventus could be a good idea due to the ongoing investigation into their improper financial practices which could lead to a ban from European competitions, and the team may not even qualify after the points deduction. However, moving from Juventus in Champions League to a team in a relegation race like Leeds United is a significant change.
This is something that his national teammate Tyler Adams has already experienced moving from RB Leipzig, but for McKennie, who is also drawing interest from a team like Arsenal, a move to Leeds United may not be the most ideal destination.
Talks ongoing between Leeds United and Juventus on conditions of Weston McKennie deal. Discussions also on player side over personal terms. ⚪️🇺🇸 #LUFC The other option for Leeds is Azzedine Ounahi from Angers. pic.twitter.com/ZApMtWMfk0 — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 24, 2023
Arsenal Also Wants In
As for the other teams interested in acquiring McKennie, Arsenal is one to watch. They could offer him a chance to play for a Premier League title, however, the competition for playing time would be tough as he would have to contend with in-form midfielders Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey for a starting role. It would take a exceptional performance from McKennie to make it difficult for Mikel Arteta to decide on his lineup. The level of play at Arsenal would be higher compared to Leeds United, which might offer more opportunity for minutes but might see less of the ball.