CHESTER, Pa.—The Philadelphia Union announced today that they have acquired defender Finn Sundstrom from USL Championship side North Carolina FC, who have suspended operations for the 2026 season. This news comes shortly after goalkeeper Oliver Semmle, who the Union loaned to North Carolina FC during the 2025 season and did not re-sign, signed with Lexington SC of the USL Championship.

Sundstrom, 19, is under contract through 2028 with club options for 2029 and 2030. In order to gain Sundstrom’s rights from DC United, who had selected him off waivers, the Union traded their 2028 MLS SuperDraft first round pick to DC.

The 6’0″ defender, a native of North Carolina, came through North Carolina FC’s Academy, starting at age 11, and initially played as a midfielder. He made the move to center back while with NCFC, where he spent the last two seasons, making his professional debut on September 8, 2024 against Oakland Roots SC. In 2025, he made 33 total appearances across all competitions for 2,671 minutes, with one goal and one assist. He was honored as NCFC Player of the Month for September, and was nominated for USL Young Player of the Year. Sundstrom led NCFC in blocks (28) and was second in clearances (111), tackles (38), and passes attempted (1,014).

Sundstrom received his first national team call up for the United States U-20 camp that took place in September in West Palm Beach, where he joined future Union teammates Andrew Rick, Eddy Davis, and Sal OIivas.

“Finn is a young versatile defender who aligns well with our playing philosophy,” said Philadelphia Union Head Coach, Bradley Carnell in the Union’s press release. “At just 19 years old, he has demonstrated the toughness and mentality we value at the Union, as well as the ability to adapt to different styles of play. We look forward to continuing his development.”

Main article photo credit: Zachary Taft/North Carolina FC