Manchester United have rewarded Zach Baumann with his first professional contract.
The 17-year-old was a member of United’s treble-winning U18 team last season where he made 16 appearances and enjoyed a spell with the U21s as well during the latter stages of the season.
A versatile central midfielder, Baumann originally played in a more advanced role but has gained experience in a more defensive role in the last year.
The youngster took to Instagram to announce the occasion saying, “Proud moment for me and my family to sign my first professional contract.”
Impressing most with his ability on the ball, Baumann plays the game in a manner well beyond his years which explains why he has had opportunities with the U21s so early in his career.
A calm and composed midfielder, he is capable of taking the ball under pressure and wriggling out of congested areas with the drop of a shoulder before cleverly cutting through with his short passing.
It is hard to nail down Baumann’s specific role in midfield yet, and while he possesses a great deal of quality in possession, his conviction in the final third to score and create goals is not as good as some of his teammates.
Similarly, moving into a deeper position, the increase in defensive responsibility is a work in progress for the wiry midfielder.
But where he lacks at either end of the pitch, he makes up for with his play in the middle third where he rarely loses possession and is becoming a master in manipulating and opening up spaces.
His style of play isn’t the only thing to be nailed down though, with the topic of his international allegiance also doing the rounds.
Eligible for England and Ukraine, it has been reported that Ukraine have started conversations with his family regarding his future plans.
Yet to be called up by either, but with the incredible depth of talent in the England set-up, it may be the yellow of Ukraine who come calling first to convince the midfielder.
Starting in each of Adam Lawrence’s U18 league matches so far this season, with the team winning three from three, it can be expected that Baumann will be a mainstay this season as he looks to continue to progress following the signing of his first professional contract.
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