USMNT's Yunus Musah reportedly close to joining Atalanta on a loan deal with a buy option from AC Milan

Chelsea v AC Milan - Pre-Season Friendly

According to a report, Milan and Atalanta are close to finalizing the loan deal for the American midfielder

WHAT HAPPENED?

U.S. international Yunus Musah is reportedly close to joining Atalanta on a loan deal with a purchase option from AC Milan. 

Sky Sports Italy is reporting that Milan and Atalanta officials met on Sunday morning to finalize discussions over the move, with the loan including an option to purchase for $29.2 million (€25 million). Musah started at right wing back for the Rossoneri and played 90 minutes in the club's 2-0 win over Lecce on Friday.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE

Musah's future has been speculated about throughout the summer, with Napoli, Nottingham Forest, and Crystal Palace all rumored to have had interest in the American midfielder. As recently as last week, the 22-year-old was adamant he wanted to stay with AC Milan. 

"I am happy at Milan," he told ESPN FC. "It is a great club. I'd love to win some great things here. It felt really nice winning the Super Cup last season, so I'd love to win more things. This is what we're expected to do here. I am just happy here, and I am looking to work hard and be a main player in the team."

Yet, unlike previous rumors, Atalanta's interest in Musah persisted. If the move goes through, it will allow Musah to get a much-needed fresh start, while also staying in Italy - a reported preference for the former Valencia standout. Ivan Jurić, Atalanta's manager, plays a formation that should better suit Musah's strengths. During his two years at Milan, Musah has struggled to get consistent playing time and roles under four managers. 

DID YOU KNOW?

One added benefit of the potential move is that Musah would return to Champions League action. Milan missed out on the Champions League last season after finishing eighth. Atalanta finished third in the 2024-25 campaign and will play their first Champions League match against holders PSG on Sept. 17. 

Musah could potentially join nine other Americans in UCL action this season. 

Ivan Juric Atalanta 2025

WHAT NEXT FOR MUSAH?

The midfielder will wait for the discussions to be completed before potentially making his move to Bergamo. The transfer window closes on Sept. 1.