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Sydney FC have finalised the signing of highly rated teenage defender James Overy from Manchester United on a three-year contract. The 18-year-old right-back is returning to Australian football for an undisclosed fee, with the Premier League club including a buy-back clause as he looks for regular senior game time to strengthen his ambitions of breaking through at international level.

Sydney have brought in 18-year-old right-back Overy from United's academy on a three-year deal. Last season's A-League Men grand finalists completed the transfer for an undisclosed amount, while the Premier League giants inserted a buy-back clause into the agreement. The switch sees Overy return to his home country after spending two years developing his game in the English youth system.

Overy made it clear that he wants steady first-team minutes to improve his chances of making next year's Asian Cup squad.

In an official club statement, Overy said: "I feel this is the right time for me to take the next step and play senior football. Sydney FC is a massive club with a history of winning trophies and developing young Australian players, so I'm really excited to be joining.

"Being involved with the Socceroos has given me a taste of where I want to get to. Playing regularly for Sydney FC is a huge opportunity for me to keep developing and hopefully earn more opportunities with the national team."

Overy will aim to follow the path of Paul Okon-Engstler, who broke into the senior national team and secured a move to FC Koln after thriving in Sky Blue colours.

Welcoming the teenager to the club, Sydney head coach Patrick Kisnorbo said: "James is an extremely exciting young Australian player who we believe has a very big future. He has spent two important years developing in an elite environment at Manchester United, and now he needs regular senior football to take the next step in his career.

"He has already been around the Socceroos at only 18, which demonstrates how highly regarded he is, and what a good character he is as well."

Overy could make his competitive debut straight away when Sydney take on fierce rivals Melbourne Victory in the Australia Cup semi-finals on Wednesday. A meeting with familiar opponents would provide an ideal early test of his physical preparedness for senior football. Strong and consistent displays in both the cup and league campaigns will significantly enhance the young defender's push to secure a permanent place with the Socceroos.