LA Galaxy have officially completed the signing of Jakob Glesnes, one of Major League Soccer’s top defenders, from Philadelphia Union. The move marks a major acquisition for the Western Conference side as they look to rebuild following a disappointing 2025 season.

Glesnes’ MLS Career and Achievements

Glesnes, a former MLS Defender of the Year, has been a standout for Philadelphia Union since joining from Norwegian Eliteserien side Strømsgodset in 2020. Over six seasons in MLS, he has helped the Union capture two Supporters’ Shield titles and reach the MLS Cup final in 2022.

In addition to team success, Glesnes has earned three MLS All-Star selections (2022, 2023, 2025) and has been widely regarded as a back-line leader in the league. His experience and defensive prowess make him one of MLS’s most consistent and reliable center-backs.

LA Galaxy’s Vision and Expectations

Galaxy General Manager Will Kuntz welcomed Glesnes, saying:
“We are thrilled to welcome Jakob and his family to Los Angeles. In his six years in MLS, Jakob has established himself as one of the best center-backs in the league and a back-line leader on multiple Supporters’ Shield-winning teams.”

Glesnes’ signing comes as LA Galaxy aim to rebound from a disappointing 2025 campaign, in which the six-time MLS Cup winners finished 14th in the Western Conference. His leadership and defensive skills are expected to play a key role in revitalizing the squad.

Transfer Details

The deal reportedly involves a transfer fee north of $1 million in General Allocation Money (GAM), plus performance-based add-ons that could total another $1 million. Glesnes joins a list of notable departures from Philadelphia Union, including Tai Baribo, who is set to move to D.C. United.

What This Means for LA Galaxy

With Jakob Glesnes now in the ranks, LA Galaxy hope to solidify their defense and build a foundation for a MLS playoff push in 2026. His signing is a statement of intent for a club determined to return to the upper echelons of the Western Conference.