D.C. United has submitted an application to the United Soccer League to own and operate a secondary squad in the Washington area starting in 2018, the Insider has learned.
If approved, United would join a growing number of MLS organizations with direct involvement in developing young players in a competitive league and running a second pro team. This year, 11 of 20 MLS clubs fielded teams in the USL, a 30-member circuit two rungs below MLS.
A United spokeswoman said the club did not have any comment at this time.
The USL issued a statement, saying, “We have seen increased interest in the USL given the league’s steady growth, stable business model and level of high-quality play.