Rumour: Coupland Set For Loan Spell With Whitecaps

As reported by Glass City FC and backed by local Croatian media, it looks like HNK Rijeka youngster Antoine Coupland may be set for a loan spell with the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Croatian outlet Novilist has reported that a loan deal between the two clubs will see Coupland ply his trade in Vancouver until the end of the year, with the ‘Caps having an opportunity to buy out his contract at that point.

The 19-year-old midfielder is considered a high-ceiling player in the HNK Rijeka setup, where he’s scored nine goals at the U-19 level since arriving from Atletico Ottawa last season.

It is believed that his path towards the first team is currently blocked by some in-form seniors, and thus the club believe it is best for his development to get minutes elsewhere.

While just 19 years of age, Coupland already several professional seasons under his belt: he turned pro with the Ottawa Fury at the age of 15, becoming the USL side’s youngest-ever player.

After the club ceased operations, he signed with Atletico Ottawa in the following spring and made eighteen appearances for the club over the next two seasons before betting on himself and securing a move to Europe.

Should the 19-year-old make the move to British Columbia, it remains to be seen whether he nets himself a first team roster spot or, as some suspect, an MLS Next Pro deal.