Midfielders Brandan Craig and Quinn Sullivan have signed pro contracts with the Philadelphia Union, the franchise announced this week.

Both 16 year olds will have their contracts begin on January 1, 2021.

“These are two young, promising players who have fit in well with our system at every level of their development,” Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner said in a press release. “Both players excelled at our academy, which is one of the most challenging environments for young talents. Their work ethic is evident by their quick ascension and success with Union II where they were able to make early, immediate impacts. Brandan has a strong set piece delivery and impressive passing range for his age. Quinn is strong in the tackle, covers an incredible amount of ground, and has the precise type of tenacious attitude we want in our squad. The best academies continually produce new and exciting talents, and to me, these players are further proof of concept. We look forward to welcoming them to the first team.”

Craig played in 85 games for the Union Academy, starting from the U12 team to the U19s. He joined Union II this season in the USL Championship, starting in 11 of 14 games. He is No. 19 in the most recent 2022 Boys IMG Academy rankings update. Born in 2004, he will be in contention for the 2021 U.S. U17 World Cup cycle, should it be possible to go forward.

Also a four-year veteran of the Academy, Sullivan played in 90 games, scoring 32 goals. He played in nine games for Union II in 2020. Sullivan is No. 51 in the 2021 Boys IMG Academy player rankings.

According to a report from the Philadelphia Inquirer, both players have European passports and were being chased by clubs in Europe.

Video courtesy of InStat Football.