USMNT transfer recap: 6 World Cup hopefuls who switched clubs this winter highlights significant moves that could shape their future with the U.S. men’s national soccer team.
LB Caleb Wiley
To: Watford
From: Strasbourg (via Chelsea)
Before Antonee Robinson of Fulham became a standout left back for the U.S. men’s national team, that position was often occupied by players who were either converted midfielders or right-footed defenders. The lack of natural left-footed options is still apparent, as U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino did not call up a backup for Robinson during the last gathering of the full-strength squad.
Kristoffer Lund has been the primary backup for much of 2024, while John Tolkin’s profile is rising rapidly. However, Caleb Wiley should not be overlooked. After joining Tolkin on the 2024 U.S. Olympic team, Wiley was loaned from Chelsea to Strasbourg, where he made six appearances in Ligue 1 before a shoulder injury sidelined him in November.
If Wiley secures a regular spot with Watford, he could position himself for a chance to impress Chelsea’s management next summer or continue his growth on loan with another top-tier club. He has already earned two caps with the senior USMNT, the latest being in January 2024.
M/F Taylor Booth
To: Twente
From: Utrecht
M Luca de la Torre
To: San Diego FC
From: Celta Vigo
Luca de la Torre’s career in Europe appeared promising after he made the U.S. World Cup roster in 2022. Although the San Diego native did not see action in Qatar, he broke into the starting 11 at Celta Vigo early in 2023, making 60 appearances in La Liga over a season and a half.
However, this season, manager Claudio Giráldez decided that de la Torre was not part of his plans. After logging only three minutes this season, he was loaned to MLS expansion team San Diego FC on January 21.
This move ensures de la Torre will receive ample playing time, as he will control the midfield for coach Mikey Vargas, who recently served as the interim boss for the USMNT, alongside star player Hirving “Chucky” Lozano. A successful stint could lead to a return to Europe before the 2026 World Cup, but U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino has emphasized that players in MLS who excel will have equal chances to make the roster as their European counterparts.
De la Torre is ready to test this commitment, with his loan deal including an option for San Diego FC to make the transfer permanent—a prospect he is open to. “If I’m happy here and that means I’m playing my best football, I’ll stay,” he stated to local outlet SanDiego.futbol.
M Lennard Maloney
To: Mainz
From: Heidenheim
Although Pochettino has yet to call up German-born defensive midfielder Lennard Maloney, his recent move from struggling Heidenheim to sixth-place Mainz could change that. Maloney seems to fit Pochettino’s preferred player profile perfectly.
“He brings a strong mentality, as well as a willingness to run hard,” noted Mainz sporting director Niko Bungert, who also highlighted Maloney’s proficiency in winning challenges and aerial duels.
The competition for midfield spots is fierce, with Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, and Yunus Musah firmly established as starters. Other players, including de la Torre, Brenden Aaronson, and Gio Reyna, are also in contention. However, none possess Maloney’s fierce determination and defensive prowess—qualities that earned him two U.S. caps under former coach Gregg Berhalter in late 2023.
The former Borussia Dortmund prospect could debut for Mainz this Saturday against Augsburg, with Bungert stating, “He’s the perfect fit for Mainz.”
LB John Tolkin
To: Holstein Kiel
From: New York Red Bulls
John Tolkin also made the leap from MLS to the Bundesliga in January, securing a permanent transfer to Holstein Kiel for around $3 million—a record fee for the club.
The positive aspect of Tolkin’s move is that he received immediate playing time; he started against Bayern Munich in a tightly contested 3-2 loss, creating several scoring opportunities despite being outmaneuvered by Michael Olise on Bayern’s first goal.
On the downside, Holstein Kiel is currently on track for relegation to the German second division, which could diminish his competitive edge compared to Wiley and Lund, who plays for Italian Serie B side Palermo.
M James Sands
To: St. Pauli
From: New York City FC
James Sands, a New Yorker, gained significant experience with Rangers in the Champions League during a 14-month loan from New York City FC in 2022-23.
Sands returned to Europe on January 1, joining St. Pauli on a six-month loan. He has already featured in five matches, starting the last three under manager Alexander Blessin, who appears to have confidence in the newcomer.
