Western United has added another explosive young talent to its A-League Men roster, securing goalkeeper Alex Nassiep to the longest contract in the club’s history.
The 18-year-old has committed until June 2028, seeing him spend the next three-and-a-half years developing his trade at Ironbark Fields.
Standing at 194 centimetre tall, Nassiep has been in the Western United Academy since 2023 and risen through the ranks.
His height and speed off his line make him a terrifying sight for opposition strikers while his distribution skills suit the exciting, attacking brand of football that United wishes to play.
Prior to that, Nassiep has also represented Australia at under-17 level having made his name at home in Queensland.
Having impressed United goalkeeper coach Michael Theo and first team staff in training over a number of months, Nassiep has earned a senior contract and is ready to take the next step.
“Signing my first contract means everything to me. I’ve been working my whole life to get to where I am today,” he said.
“I feel very privileged that the coaching staff and the club have put plenty of faith in me. No I just need to give back to them.
“I’m very lucky to be able to work day in, day out with Michael Theo – he has been a big impact on where I’ve gotten to today. Obviously,John Aloisi is one of the biggest names in Australian football, so it is an honour to be coached under him as well.”
Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato said the club had extremely high hopes for Nassiep’s development.
“Alex is someone that we have been incredibly impressed with since he joined our Academy and we are delighted to be able to offer him a scholarship contract,” he said.
“He has performed superbly in the NPL space while also having an impact in first team training opportunities with his quality as well as his work ethic and character.
“Alex joins a talented group of goalkeepers being led by Michael Theo and we are incredibly excited to watch him develop alongside the remainder of our squad.”
Nassiep becomes the ninth player to sign a first senior contract directly from the academy for the 2024-25 season.