Some criticized Jurgen Klinsmann’s choice to bring DeAndre Yedlin to Brazil as part of his 23-man World Cup roster. Heck, some thought putting him in the 30-man preliminary wasn’t a grand idea.
But the 21-year-old wide man’s electric performance during the United States run to the quarterfinals has opened the eyes of the top clubs in Europe, with the following names dropped during a Sky Sports report Wednesday as UEFA Champions League clubs that have made a ‘firm offer’ for his services:
Roma
Napoli
Anderlecht
Those big names are joined by interest “from every top league in Europe”, according to the report:A spokesman for James Grant Group, who represent the player, confirmed to Sky Sports that talks were ongoing over his future.
“DeAndre is now back in America following the World Cup, and yes talks are ongoing over his future as there are a number of options for him – but as yet nothing is decided,” said the spokesman.
The player himself said on his arrival back in the USA that he was leaving the situation with his agents.
“I’m kind of letting my representatives handle that right now,” Yedlin said.
“They’ll obviously get back to me on that information but for right now I’m just focused on Seattle.”
Seattle coach Sigi Smid added: “How many 21-year-old right backs have three World Cup games under their belt? That’s a very exclusive market. It’s something that we are proud of.”
To say Yedlin’s star is on the rise is like saying Keurigs have become popular with regular coffee drinkers. The Seattle back’s future is looking brighter than ever.
Where’s the best fit? Frankly, I’d love to see Yedlin competing for time at Napoli or Roma, but what’s more important: being a part of a massive club or making a bigger dent at a club like Anderlecht, one where Sacha Kljestan has succeeded? Belgium’s UEFA coefficient is 30 points lower than Italy, and Serie A training could elevate Yedlin as it did Michael Bradley between Chievo and Roma.
