Bournemouth reportedly agree deal to sign U.S. youth international center back Matai Akinmboni from D.C. United

D.C. United have reportedly moved another highly-touted youth prospect to a European club, with 18 year old center back Matai Akinmboni set to join Bournemouth in January. The defender, who has already been involved in the United first team set up, making four starts and eight overall appearances this season, came close to a move to the Cherries last summer. However, the two sides were unable to come to an agreement.

GiveMeSport was first to report the deal.

The Black and Red have become consistent sellers of young talent to Europe in recent years. They moved Paredes to Wolfsburg in 2022, and have also sent Yow and Pines to European sides. Youngster Kristian Fletcher, another academy product, joined Nottingham Forest on loan last summer.

Akinmboni made his debut in 2022 and has 13 league appearances for D.C.

Akinmboni has eligibility for multiple national sides. Although he has played for the U.S. U19s, and was born in the United States, he is also able to play for Ghana through his parents.

The youngster is set to move to Bournemouth this January, where he will link up with Andoni Iraloa's squad. The Cherries have been one of the surprises of the Premier League season, and are currently in eighth after 15 games.