Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union has announced the signing of forward Sal Olivas to a four-year contract. The 18-year-old, who previously played for Union II and the Union Academy, will be under contract through 2028 with an option for 2029.

"Sal is an ambitious, young striker who made significant strides in his development with Union II last season," said Philadelphia Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner. "He’s a high-pressing player who drives the ball forward and can create chances on the attack. His signing to the first team will provide him the opportunity to continue to develop and learn from our coaching staff and gain the necessary experience by playing alongside our veteran players."

During the 2024 season, Olivas scored four goals and recorded one assist over 20 regular-season games with Union II. He ranked tied-fourth on the club in goals, scoring his first career goal on March 24 against Revolution II and achieving a career-high two goals on June 2 against Columbus II. Olivas also participated in all four MLS NEXT Pro playoff contests as his team reached its first-ever MLS NEXT Pro Cup Final.

Olivas was initially signed to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract on September 8, 2023. He played a crucial role in Philadelphia Union U17's victory at the Generations adidas Cup in Bradenton, Florida, scoring in the semifinals against FC Dallas. Following this achievement, he was called up to Mexico’s U17 Men's Youth National Team for a friendly match against Pumas' U18 squad.

With this move, Olivas becomes only the seventh player of Mexican nationality to play for Philadelphia Union's First Team since its inception.