Five Serie A Players Likely to Seal Blockbuster Transfers After the World Cup | OneFootball

With the FIFA World Cup often serving as the ultimate shop window, several Serie A stars could have played their final matches for their clubs as blockbuster transfers wait around the corner.

From established superstars to unsettled performers, these five players head into the tournament knowing a strong international campaign could dramatically increase their value and accelerate mega-money moves.

Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at our list.

Christian Pulisic

With Milan preparing for a ruthless squad overhaul after failing to secure a coveted Champions League return, Christian Pulisic could be on his way out after the World Cup. The 27-year-old endured a rough second half of the season, drawing a blank in each of his 17 Serie A appearances in 2026.

However, he’s likely to be the focal point of the United States’ frontline at the upcoming tournament. Indeed, the USMNT’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages will rest on Pulisic’s shoulders, as Mauricio Pochettino’s men head into the event as betting favorites to top Group D at the expense of Turkey, Paraguay, and Australia.

Born in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Pulisic has netted 32 goals across 84 caps. Meanwhile, fans following the USMNT throughout the tournament will also be looking for the latest odds, live betting markets, and trusted Pennsylvania casino app recommendations as excitement builds around Pulisic and the United States’ World Cup campaign.

Jonathan David

Jonathan David is another North American megastar whose future is hanging in the balance. Despite joining Juventus with huge expectations last summer, the Canadian center-forward flopped in his first season in Serie A. He found the net just six times in 35 league outings, casting doubt on his long-term prospects in Turin.

After signing David on a free transfer, Juventus could make a substantial profit from his potential departure, and they seem to be seriously entertaining this idea. Despite being on the verge of losing star striker Dusan Vlahovic, Luciano Spalletti is ready to sanction David’s sale, as the record-time Italian champions prepare for another busy summer.

In the meantime, David could use the World Cup to get back on track and put a dreadful season behind him.

Marcus Thuram

Widely regarded as one of the most complete strikers in Serie A, Marcus Thuram won his second Scudetto in his third season at Inter. However, the Frenchman had a rollercoaster campaign, often struggling to live up to expectations in the absence of his attacking partner, Lautaro Martinez.

For context, the former Borussia Monchengladbach star tallied just 13 goals in 29 league games, frequently hitting exhausting scoring draughts. Therefore, Inter may look to cash in on the 28-year-old, who has a staggering €85 million release clause embedded in his contract.

Despite Thuram’s patchy form, there’s no shortage of interest. Aston Villa and Newcastle United have emerged as potential suitors, while it’s worth keeping an eye on wealthy Saudi Pro League clubs.

Manu Kone

Heavily linked with a transfer to Inter, Manu Kone looks set to leave Roma after two remarkable seasons. Indeed, the French midfielder played a prominent role in Gian Piero Gasperini’s system in 2025/26, helping the Giallorossi clinch their first top-four finish in Serie A since 2017/18.

Roma would ideally keep hold of the ex-Gladbach ace, but they have to make several high-profile sales to comply with Financial Fair Play rules. Kone could fall victim to the club’s immediate need for cash, with Gasperini’s side already slapping a massive €40 million price tag on their talisman.

Still, Roma’s lucrative demands are unlikely to deter Inter, who have earmarked Kone as a long-term replacement for Hakan Calhanoglu. However, it’ll be exciting to see if he can secure regular first-team football in Didier Deschamps’ star-studded squad.

Rafael Leao

It’s now a near-certainty that Rafael Leao will not play for Milan next season. His exit looks increasingly likely after a disappointing season under Massimiliano Allegri, who was relieved off his duties a few days ago amid the club’s ongoing search for a new head coach.

As for Leao, he has drawn enquiries across Europe, with Manchester United understood to be leading the race to secure his signature. While it’s fair to say that the 26-year-old performed well below his high standard this term, the World Cup could serve as the perfect platform for the Portuguese winger to rebuild his stock.

Though he’ll probably have to live in the shadow of Cristiano Ronaldo, Leao will still be expected to play a standout role for Portugal as Roberto Martinez’s men bid to establish themselves among the top contenders for international football’s most coveted prize.