The 18-year-old forward, who has had trials at both Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund, only joined the MLS side a year ago, but has left his manager and Reds legend Wayne Rooney impressed during his short time at the club.
Pictures were shared on Instagram by Fletcher&aposs former youth side showing him training at Carrington in November 2021 after going on trial with United, although the club ultimately passed up the opportunity to sign him. The following year it was announced Fletcher had joined Rooney&aposs DC United on a homegrown contract through to 2025 with a year option – from his High School team.
“Kristian is a fantastic young talent and we have been monitoring his progress with Loudoun United since he joined the club,” Lucy Rushton, D.C. United General Manager, said when announcing his arrival in August 2022. “Hes a versatile attacking player and Wayne [Rooney] has been impressed with the attributes he has shown in games and when training with the first team.
“Were looking forward to his continued development as a first team player at D.C. United.”
Fletcher made quite an impression on his manager as he notched one goal and one assist in 15 appearances for DC United despite his tender years, and it&aposs clear Rooney would have ideally liked to have kept hold of him for a little while longer.
“Hes a tremendous talent,” Rooney told The Washington Post. “Hes going to have a big future at the club.”
Fletcher previously said he was “very close” to signing for Dortmund while he also had trials with Red Bull Salzburg. But it has now been announced that the youngster is to join up with Swansea City.
In a statement, Swansea said: “Kristian Fletcher has joined Swansea Citys Under-21 set-up on loan until January 2024, subject to international clearance.
“The 18-year-old&aposs move was completed prior to the conclusion of the summer transfer window, and has been confirmed following the player&aposs arrival in South Wales.
“The forward will link up with Anthony Wrights squad for the first half of the season from MLS side DC United.
“Fletcher has made a dozen MLS appearances for DC, scoring one goal, and had trials with clubs including Borussia Dortmund and Manchester United in the summer of 2022.
“A United States youth international, he has been capped at under-15 and under-19 level.”
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The transfer window will soon close and although United got their hands on three players well in advance of the September 1 deadline, with Rasmus Hojlund joining Mason Mount and Andre Onana at Old Trafford, activity has stalled since Hojlund&aposs announcement.
A goalkeeper, a midfielder and a striker were Erik ten Hag&aposs priorities heading into the summer window, but injuries early on in the season mean United are in need of further reinforcements.
Our team of experts will be on top of all the goings-on at Old Trafford for the remainder of the window and beyond, and you can get the latest updates and inside information to your phone by joining our new free WhatsApp community below.
