Next talent in the pipeline - Orange County SC sign wunderkind Ben Barjolo from Atlanta

Orange County SC have signed a replacement for teenage striker Korede Osundina, who has moved to Feyenoord for a deal worth up to €1m. On Friday, the USL Championship announced the signing of highly talented forward Benjamin Barjolo from Atlanta United. The 16-year-old, who was a key member of the Atlanta United’s MLS NEXT Cup-winning U16 team, signs his first professional contract.

“We are delighted to sign Ben, he is a special talent and a player we have high hopes for,” OCSC Sporting Director Peter Nugent said in a club statement. “With the right guidance, we believe he has all the attributes required to follow in the footsteps of previous OCSC players, who have flourished in our professional environment and made the transition to Europe.”

Sources with direct knowledge of the player described Barjolo as one of the most exciting prospects in US soccer. Orange County SC, in the meantime, have quickly established themselves as one of the best talent producing clubs in the USL Championship. The club not only sold Osundina to Feyenoord but also sold Kobi Henry one year ago to Stade Reims. 

Barjolo to Orange County SC – “Beyond excited” 

"I’m beyond excited to be joining Orange County SC and to get started with the group,” said Barjolo. “This is the perfect platform for me to develop and with the plan the club has laid out for me, I believe it gives me the best opportunity of realizing my dream of playing in Europe.” But before moving to Europe, Barjolo will be facing Las Vegas Lights FC in the USL this upcoming weekend.