Real Salt Lake Academy product Aaron Herrera announced that he was leaving the University of New Mexico on Instagram late Wednesday, likely signaling his forthcoming signing with RSL.

“I’m extremely thankful for my teammates, coaches, academic staff, friends, and all of the great Lobo soccer fans that make this program what it is,” Herrera, 20, wrote on Instagram. “But now it’s on to a new chapter.”

https://instagram.com/p/BcqsDdpl6FQ/

RSL is in need of a right back, with Tony Beltran expected to miss a majority of next season after undergoing two right knee surgeries late in the season. Due to Homegrown Player rules, RSL would be able to sign Herrera now, as opposed to waiting to select him in the MLS SuperDraft on Jan. 19.

Per MLS rules, a player that was in a club’s academy for at least one year and “has met the necessary training and retention requirements” may sign with that club without going through the MLS SuperDraft.

Herrera spent thee years in the RSL-Arizona Academy, starting at right back for the team’s run to the U-15/16 U.S. Soccer Developmental Academy finals in 2014. He was one of five RSL Academy products to join the U.S. U-20 national team for the World Cup this year.

Real Salt Lake declined to comment through a team spokesperson, per club policy.

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