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The Essential Philadelphia Union Dream Transfer Shortlist

By Paul Catrino Jr.

Jun 25, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; General view at dusk at Talen Energy Stadium during a game between the Philadelphia Union and the Vancouver Whitecaps. The Vancouver Whitecaps won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; General view at dusk at Talen Energy Stadium during a game between the Philadelphia Union and the Vancouver Whitecaps. The Vancouver Whitecaps won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Jelle van der Heyden – Central Midfielder – FC Twente

With the loss of Vincent Nogueira at the heart of the Union midfield and no set return for veteran Maurice Edu, it is crucial that the Union explore their options at the position in order to solidify their position within the league. Jelle van der Heyden possesses many of the qualities that made Nogueira so appreciated here in Philadelphia. He is a technical player who is quick, aggressive and fit to play a full 90 minutes at any competitive level at the age of 20. Born in the Netherlands the young midfielder is about 5’10”, averages roughly 1.5 tackles and interceptions per game in the top flight of Dutch professional soccer and completes 76% of his passes from a mostly defensive role in the middle of the pitch.

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Consistent playing time throughout his career at FC Twente has developed his game immensely and many of his coaches and scouts view his progress as heading in an extremely positive direction. He is sound positionally and has matured his game to a level that has sent his stock rising steadily over the past few years. He even registered an assist against Philadelphia Union sporting director Earnie Stewart’s former club AZ Alkmaar this season which he will certainly have made note of by now.

Van der Heyden has been groomed in the Netherlands to be primed for both club and international success and will need to be swayed in order to prevent him from signing his one-year extension. Yet his high ceiling of potential along with making an impact both offensively and defensively and keeping possession at his feet makes him a strong catalyst that can provide opportunities for playmakers like Tranquillo Barnetta and Ilsinho through the midfield. While the move may not be exactly what he had in mind for his professional career, the right mentality and plan for success down the road can convince anyone to buy into what you’re trying to accomplish as an organization. Definitely a kid worth watching for this summer.

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