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LA Galaxy Acquire All-Star Defender Jakob Glesnes From Philadelphia Union

Philadelphia receives $1.1 million in guaranteed GAM in a deal it presents as a roster investment.

Nov 23, 2025; Chester, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Union defender Jakob Glesnes (5) reacts against New York City FC in the second half at Subaru Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Both clubs confirmed the trade, which also sends the homegrown priority rights to 17-year-old forward Jamir Johnson to the Galaxy.
  • The Galaxy will pay $500,000 in GAM in 2025 and $600,000 in 2027, with up to $1.1 million more tied to performance conditions.
  • Philadelphia retains a future trade and sell-on percentage if Los Angeles later moves Johnson.
  • Glesnes, 31, departs after 224 appearances for the Union, a 2022 MLS Defender of the Year award, and a third All-Star nod in 2025, with LA expecting him for January 2026 preparations.
  • Union coach Bradley Carnell highlighted the financial flexibility to strengthen the roster, while Galaxy GM Will Kuntz called Glesnes one of MLS’s top center backs; local reports link Colombian defender Geiner Martinez as a possible replacement, which has not been announced.