AKINMBONI JOINS CHERRIES ON LONG-TERM DEAL

AFC Bournemouth are delighted to announce the signing of Matai Akinmboni from DC United.

The talented centre-back, who has represented the United States at youth level, joins the club on a long-term contract.

The 18-year-old arrives at Vitality Stadium having been tracked by a number of clubs across Europe during his youth career.

First-team technical director Simon Francis told afcb.co.uk: “We are delighted to sign Matai to a long-term deal with AFC Bournemouth.

“He is an exciting young player we have been monitoring for an extended period and have been impressed by his progress.

“Matai is a player we believe has a very bright future and we are looking forward to seeing him develop with us.”

Akinmboni became one of the youngest debutants in MLS history for DC United in September 2022 at 15 years and 328 days, starting a goalless draw against Real Salt Lake City in front of more than 20,000 people.

The teenager made 17 appearances in all competitions for DC, having signed a homegrown contract after representing affiliate club Loudoun United.

He has featured against the likes of England, Argentina and Uruguay at international level for the United States under-19s, helping his nation to clean sheets in two of those three fixtures.

Akinmboni also made his international under-20 debut in a 3-0 victory over South Korea in November.

The youngster played eight times in the MLS last season, providing an assist for fellow countryman Jared Stroud in a 4-3 defeat against FC Dallas in his final game for the club!!!!!!!!!