Big 2026 FIFA World Cup Could Trigger ‘Silly Money’ Move for USMNT Star, Claims Pundit

The United States men’s national team (USMNT) is set to bear the hopes of home fans in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, slated to begin on Jun. 11. And, a pundit has asserted that one USMNT midfielder could be the subject of serious transfer speculation this summer.

USMNT Star Receives Praise Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

During a recent interaction with GOAL, former Manchester United and Leeds United ace Lee Sharpe was asked whether Brenden Aaronson has a long-term future at Leeds.

“I don’t see why not. I think sometimes tough times create the man. He has come through those tough times and it has probably made him a better player and a better person. Leeds United need all the talented players they can keep at the moment… I think Aaronson is one of those that they need to keep,” the former England international commented.

However, Sharpe also claimed that Aaronson could attract attention from top teams should he relish a fine 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with the USMNT from June to July.

“I think Leeds probably need a little bit more strength in depth. If he goes to the World Cup and has a good one, and (Leeds) get offered silly money for him and can go and get two or three players for what they get for him… then that is certainly an option they need to look at,” the 1990-91 PFA Young Player of the Year winner continued.

Sharpe, who represented the Whites between 1996 and 1999, also asserted that Aaronson should be retained by Leeds this summer, as the playmaker is one of his club’s best stars.

“On the other hand, Leeds can’t lose your best players. It depends on (Leeds United boss) Daniel Farke’s plans and what he has got up his sleeve for the close season and the (next) transfer window. It’s a balancing act for every team. You want to keep your best players… but, you also need strength in depth for a really long, tough season,” he added.

READ MORE: USMNT Icon Landon Donovan Fires Back at MLS Coaching Criticism

Aaronson, 25, began his Leeds United career on a rather sour note, scoring just one goal in 40 overall games in the 2022-23 season. He moved to Bundesliga side Union Berlin on loan in the summer of 2023 after his parent club dropped down to the EFL Championship.

However, the 56-cap USMNT international enjoyed a fine 2024-25 season. He helped Leeds win the EFL Championship title with a staggering 100 points, registering nine goals and two assists in 47 total matches in an attacking midfield role last campaign.

So far this season, Aaronson has been utilized in a number of positions, a testament to his versatility on the pitch. He has found the back of the opposition net four times and laid out three assists in 29 appearances across all competitions for his club this term.