David Ochoa set to join D.C. United following Man Utd, Barcelona links
By Chris Smith
Real Salt Lake have agreed to trade goalkeeper David Ochoa to D.C. United in exchange for Allocation Money, according to reports.
A former United States youth international, Ochoa opted to represent Mexico last year and has since picked up caps for El Tri's U-21 side.
Ochoa starred in RSL's run to the Western Conference final in last year's MLS Cup Playoffs but is yet to feature this season. The 21-year-old started the campaign listed as 'questionable' while, earlier in July, he claimed on social media that he was 'not allowed to train' with the team.
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MLSsoccer.com's Tom Bogert reported on Wednesday that the likes of Manchester United, Barcelona, Monaco, and Club America were among the clubs interested in Ochoa, though the European giants would only see him as a third-choice option.
But on Thursday, the Washington Post's Steven Goff revealed that D.C. United have agreed a trade for Ochoa, who will move to Audi Field in exchange for Allocation Money. The deal for Ochoa - who has just one year remaining on his current contract - is subject to MLS approval.
D.C. United & Real Salt Lake agree to trade that sends GK David Ochoa to Washington for allocation money, sources say. Awaiting MLS approval. Ochoa, who chose MEX over USA for intl career, in RSL’s doghouse, no games. Last year of contract. DCU would aim to reach new deal. #dcu
— Steven Goff (@SoccerInsider) July 28, 2022
Goff added that RSL would only pay part of the fee up-front, with the rest dependent on whether or not Ocha extends his contract with D.C. United.
Formerly part of the Chivas Guadalajara youth system, Ochoa has 30 senior appearances under his belt for RSL, keeping six clean sheets and conceding 46 goals.