Gio Reyna Agrees to Become Latest USMNT Star to Make Serie A Transfer

Dortmund Yet to Be Convinced Following €6m Offer from Parma

Giovanni Reyna’s journey in European football could soon take an exciting new turn. The talented American midfielder, once heralded as one of the brightest stars in U.S. soccer, is on the verge of swapping the black and yellow of Borussia Dortmund for the blue and yellow of Parma. However, while Reyna has reportedly agreed to personal terms with the Serie A outfit, his current club aren’t quite ready to let him go just yet—not without a better offer on the table.

What’s the Latest?

According to a report from Sky, Parma have submitted a €6 million bid for the 22-year-old midfielder, hoping to bring Reyna to Italy ahead of the 2025-26 season. That offer, though, has been described as insufficient by Borussia Dortmund, who are holding out for more. The Bundesliga side may be eager to move Reyna on, but not at a discount.

From Parma’s perspective, this move would represent a significant coup. Adding a player of Reyna’s pedigree—U.S. international experience, Champions League exposure, and still just entering his prime—would bolster their ambitions in Serie A. For Reyna himself, it’s about more than just playing time. It’s a chance at a fresh start, away from the shadows of unfulfilled potential and recurring injuries.

The Bigger Picture

Let’s rewind for a moment. Giovanni Reyna burst onto the scene with Dortmund as a teenager, carrying the hopes of American fans eager to see another star rise in Europe. He made over 40 appearances in the 2020-21 campaign, racking up goals, assists, and minutes that had many hailing him as the next Christian Pulisic—or perhaps someone capable of going even further.

But since that breakout season, things haven’t gone as planned. Injuries have been a constant disruption. Every time it seemed Reyna was on the verge of reclaiming his place in Dortmund’s starting eleven, a hamstring pull or muscle tear would send him back to the physio table. Over the last two seasons, he’s found himself slipping further down the pecking order, culminating in just 12 minutes of action during Dortmund’s recent Club World Cup run.

A Move That Makes Sense for All Parties

From Dortmund’s side, it appears the club is ready to move on. Reyna still has name value and potential, but he’s become more of a fringe figure than a future cornerstone. The challenge, however, lies in agreeing a suitable fee. While €6 million is certainly a bid, it’s arguably not enough for a player with Reyna’s resume—even if recent seasons have been underwhelming.

Parma, meanwhile, sees an opportunity. Having re-established themselves in Serie A, they’re looking to add flair and creativity in the final third, and Reyna fits that mold perfectly. At his best, he’s a versatile playmaker who can operate centrally or drift wide, link up play, and score goals. If they can finalize this move, it could be one of the summer’s shrewdest pieces of business.

Did You Know?

Reyna’s name carries weight not just because of his performances, but because of his pedigree. He’s the son of former U.S. captain Claudio Reyna and has long been considered one of the most technically gifted players of his generation. In many ways, his career has paralleled that of other young American stars who headed to Europe early—some thriving, others struggling to adapt.

Despite the recent setbacks, Reyna’s numbers aren’t without merit. He’s already amassed over 100 appearances for Dortmund across all competitions and has featured in high-stakes Champions League matches. It’s that blend of youth, experience, and raw talent that keeps clubs like Parma interested—and perhaps why Dortmund is reluctant to let him leave on the cheap.

What’s Next for Gio Reyna?

Gio Reyna USMNT 2024

The ball now seems to be in Dortmund’s court. While the player is reportedly on board with the move to Parma, and personal terms have been agreed upon, the clubs remain at a standstill over the transfer fee. Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days, with both sides keen to reach a resolution before the window progresses much further.

For Reyna, this move could mark the beginning of a much-needed new chapter. A chance to reset, to find consistency in a league that rewards technical ability and tactical intelligence. Serie A has become a popular destination for U.S. internationals in recent years, with the likes of Weston McKennie and Christian Pulisic thriving on Italian soil. Reyna will be hoping to follow a similar path.

And then there’s the looming 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It’s a tournament Reyna will be desperate to play a leading role in, and regular club football over the next two years will be crucial. With Mauricio Pochettino now at the helm of the USMNT, there’s optimism surrounding the team’s direction—but only players in form and playing at the highest level will make the cut.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t just a story about a young player switching clubs. It’s a story about redemption, ambition, and the fine margins that often dictate the careers of emerging stars. Giovanni Reyna has all the tools to become a top-level footballer again—he just needs the right platform.

Parma could be that platform. Serie A could be the league where he rediscovers himself. And this transfer window could be the moment that sets the stage for his resurgence. All that’s left is for Borussia Dortmund and Parma to find common ground—and then, perhaps, we’ll see Reyna write a bold new chapter in Italy.