Report: Manchester United continue pursuit of 17-year-old American defender

Could we soon see one of the United States' best young soccer prospects with Manchester United? Matthew Olosunde is a product of the New York Red Bulls academy and showed well for the U.S. U-17 team at right back in this fall's World Cup in Chile. The famed English Premier League club is reportedly very interested in signing the talented defender.

Back in July the Daily Mail reported that United were looking at him as a potential signing. Today they offer this update on the pursuit:

United are also pressing ahead with discussions to sign United States youth international Matthew Olosunde.

The New York Red Bulls academy defender has been training with United on and off since the summer and they are preparing to offer him a contract subject to work permits and international clearance.

Ah, our old pal the work permit. When Olosunde turns 18-years-old in March, he'll be within the guidelines of FIFA to be able to make the switch. However, with the United Kingdom's strict policy on work permits, Manchester United would likely have to apply for a 'special talent' exemption to allow him to gain permission to play in England.

Olosunde is an extremely talented player with good technical ability and great athleticism. It's no surprise that European sides are interested in him, although a club as big as United showing it is very encouraging for the young man's potential. We'll see if they're able to work out the bureaucratic mumbo-jumbo and get the deal completed. Surely if he does move to a big club in Europe, Jurgen Klinsmann will take notice.

As we pointed out in our depth chart series, right back is a worrisome position for the USMNT. Adding another high potential prospect to the mix could be a nice shot in the arm for the right back corps.