LA Galaxy acquire former defender of the year Jakob Glesnes from Philadelphia

In a move to solidify its backline ahead of a critical season, the LA Galaxy have acquired veteran center back Jakob Glesnes from the Philadelphia Union, the club announced Monday. The Galaxy sent $1.1 million in General Allocation Money to Philadelphia in exchange for the 31-year-old defender and the Homegrown Priority for a youth player.

The transaction represents a significant defensive coup for the Galaxy, who conceded the second-most goals in the Western Conference last season. Glesnes, a three-time MLS All-Star and the 2022 MLS Defender of the Year, was the anchor of a Philadelphia defense that led the league with just 35 goals allowed and 14 clean sheets in 2025.

“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 Supporter's Shield winning teams,” Galaxy GM Will Kuntz said in a statement. “We are thrilled to welcome Jakob and his family to Los Angeles.”

The Norwegian national is under contract through the 2027 season, with a club option for 2028. 

The deal could ultimately see Philadelphia receive an additional $1.1 million in GAM if certain performance-based incentives tied to Glesnes or the transferred Homegrown Priority are met.

The defender brings a proven track record of durability and leadership, having started 178 of his 181 MLS appearances for Philadelphia. Glasnes has also contributed nine goals and 10 assists in his MLS career.

Glesnes will find himself in a crowded position group, pairing with either Emiro Garces, Chris Rindov or Maya Yoshida. His arrival marks a major offseason priority checked off for the Galaxy front office as the team prepares for a 2026 campaign that includes a deep Concacaf Champions Cup run and the heightened expectations that come with it.