The Los Angeles Galaxy have acquired veteran center back Jacob Glesness from the Philadelphia Union in an effort to bolster their defense ahead of a crucial season, the team announced Monday. The Galaxy offered Philadelphia $1.1 million in general grant funding in exchange for the 31-year-old defenseman and homegrown rights to a young player.
The trade is a major defensive coup for the Galaxy, which allowed the second-most goals allowed in the Western Conference last season. Glasness, a three-time MLS All-Star and the 2022 MLS Defender of the Year, is the backbone of a Philadelphia defense that led the league in 2025 with 35 goals conceded and 14 clean sheets.
“In his six years in MLS, Jacob has established himself as one of the best center backs in the league and a defensive leader on multiple Supporters’ Shield winning teams,” Galaxy general manager Will Kunz said in a statement. “We are delighted to welcome Jacob and his family to Los Angeles.”
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The Norwegian is contracted until the 2027 season and has a club option for 2028.
Philadelphia could end up receiving an additional $1.1 million in GAM if certain performance-based incentives related to Glesnes or the transferred home priority are met.
The defender has a proven track record of durability and leadership, starting 178 of 181 MLS games for Philadelphia. Glasness also contributed nine goals and 10 assists during his MLS career.
Glasness will find himself in a crowded position group, paired with Emilo Garces, Kris Lindelof or Maya Yoshida. His arrival marks a major offseason priority for the Galaxy front office as the team prepares for the 2026 season, which includes a deep run into the CONCACAF Champions League and the heightened expectations that come with it.
