The Essential Philadelphia Union Dream Transfer Shortlist

Vincent Vermeij – Center Forward – De Graafschap

Flying surprisingly low on the Dutch radar stands a 6’4″ pure striker named Vincent Vermeij. Yes, I said 6’4″, clearly an aerial threat when it comes to crosses into the box as well as creative in attacking positions. A towering force up top, Vermeij’s value is skyrocketing and clubs have certainly made notice, though he still remains within our general price range as of today. He scored nine goals in 21 appearances in the Netherlands’ Jupiler League while registering a surprising amount of tackles in the process, a rare trait to find in most attacking minded players.

Working his way through the Ajax academy, Vermeij got an opportunity to compete on the Dutch U21 squad and dazzled scouts with his ability to control headers with precision and knowledge to analyze a good shot from a bad one; resulting in a relatively high goal conversion rate. He has had an incredible youth career including a hat trick against the Ajax reserve squad at age 17.

There is still much room for growth in Vermeij’s overall play, but make no mistake he is on the verge of breaking through to the next level of his game which with his strong build and height advantage would be lethal in any league. While the attention he’s been grabbing in the media is gratifying, he is extremely humbled by fame and understands the aspect of team play and chemistry within the squad. The limelight of the United States may very well be an alluring prospect for the young man and only time will tell of the Dutch giant finds his way into a Philadelphia Union jersey.

Next: Hicham Faik