San Diego FC move stuns MLS fans as bold gamble on teen is revealed | OneFootball

San Diego FC is not making waves for nothing. With a balanced season in the Western Conference of MLS, the franchise is demonstrating that it knows very well where it is, and its recent move in the market confirms it. Right back Oscar Verhoeven, 18, comes on loan from San Jose Earthquakes until the end of the 2025 season. In exchange, the Earthquakes get $100,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) for next season.

There's more to the deal than meets the eye. In addition to the upfront amount, there's a 2026 GAM purchase option and a resale percentage agreement. In other words, San Diego FC is gambling on Verhoeven but with both feet on the ground and a carefully thought-out margin for maneuver.

Verhoeven brings experience despite his youth

Oscar is no stranger to the professional environment. Developed in the San Jose Earthquakes academy, he signed his first contract with the club in May 2023 and debuted as a professional shortly thereafter, in a game against Sacramento Republic.

He has gone on to play in nine matches with the first team, starting five. He played time in MLS, appearing against DC United, and was a staple with affiliate side The Town FC, appearing 36 times across the 2023 and 2024 MLS NEXT Pro seasons, tallying two assists.

For an 18-year-old right back, that is not a insignificant amount of playing time. Most importantly, it is the kind of trend line that shows consistent growth. Oscar was not just thrown in, and he is not coming to San Diego as a signing to be showcased. He has an actual track record of playing time in meaningful competitions in the American soccer ecosystem.

He also has youth national team experience with the United States. The player has earned 21 caps at the U-17 and U-20 levels. In 2023, he played three matches at the FIFA U-17 World Cup to begin. This year, he played in two U-20 friendlies against Chile.

Real competition for spots and roster value

Oscar joins the position group that already includes the likes of Willy Kumado and Jasper Löffelsend. On the left side, the club added youngster Luca Bombino, also 18, on loan from LAFC. Completing the pieces are Franco Negri and Hamady Diop.

So, this is not a signing to compensate for the squad. Verhoeven joins a list where there is real competition. He'll need to fight to earn his position. And that is precisely the kind of environment that helps the technical growth of young players. Healthy internal competition, with space to develop without asphyxiating pressure.

Tyler Heaps talks about the decision

San Diego FC sporting director Tyler Heaps' words say a lot about the thinking behind the move. "We're happy to welcome Oscar to San Diego as we continue to add competitors to our squad," he said. "He's a high-ceiling fullback and a strong competitor who we believe will excel being in our environment as he continues to develop."

San Diego is not just looking for players who are already mature. The club is also on the hunt for developing profiles, players who have the potential to adapt and grow within its ranks. And Oscar seems to fit that picture perfectly.

Not to mention the fact that from a contractual perspective, the loan with an option to purchase through GAM gives San Diego FC time to view the player, incorporate him into the team dynamic, and make a performance-based decision. It creates an interesting scenario for Oscar, as he comes into a club that's vibrant, with a genuine chance of minutes and progression.