The LA Galaxy are on the verge of acquiring former Major League Soccer Defender of the Year Jakob Glesnes from the Philadelphia Union, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. While discussions between Glesnes and the Galaxy are ongoing, terms between the two clubs have reportedly been finalized. The trade agreement involves a sum exceeding $1 million in General Allocation Money (GAM) guaranteed, along with additional performance-based incentives.
Jakob Glesnes, regarded as one of the top center-backs in MLS, has made a significant impact since joining the Union in 2020. He was a finalist for the Defender of the Year award in 2025, narrowly missing out to Tristan Blackmon. Glesnes previously won the award in 2022 and earned a spot on the MLS Best XI in both 2022 and 2025. Throughout his tenure with the Union, he has accumulated 224 appearances across all competitions, demonstrating his reliability and consistency as a key player.
Despite winning the MLS Cup in 2024, the Galaxy faced challenges during the current season, finishing near the bottom of the Western Conference. The absence of midfielder Riqui Puig, who suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and missed the entire season, contributed to the team’s struggles. However, Puig is expected to return for the 2026 season, and with Glesnes potentially joining the squad, the Galaxy aims to rebound and regain their status as one of the top teams in the West.
Adding Glesnes to the roster is seen as a critical move to address the Galaxy’s defensive issues. The team struggled to maintain a solid backline throughout the season, and Glesnes’ experience and skill set could provide the stability they need.
The Philadelphia Union, having won the Supporters’ Shield in both 2020 and 2025, have benefitted from Glesnes’ defensive prowess. His contributions were vital during the Union’s run to the MLS Cup in 2022 and their consistent qualification for the Concacaf Champions Cup. Losing Glesnes would complicate matters for the Union, particularly regarding defender Olwethu Makhanya, who has attracted interest from European clubs. If Glesnes departs, it is unlikely that the Union would sanction a transfer for Makhanya in the upcoming January window.
As negotiations continue, both clubs are keenly aware of the implications of this potential deal, not just for their respective rosters but also for their competitive strategies in the league. With the transfer window approaching, the ramifications of this move could significantly shape the course of the next MLS season.
