Philadelphia Union has announced the transfer of defender Jakob Glesnes and Homegrown Priority for academy forward Jamir Johnson to LA Galaxy. In exchange, Philadelphia Union will receive $1.1 million in guaranteed General Allocation Money (GAM), with $500,000 allocated for 2026 and $600,000 for 2027. The club could gain up to an additional $1.1 million if certain performance indicators are met and will also retain a percentage of any future transfer or sale involving Johnson.
“Jakob has been a fundamental part of our defensive unit and the success we have had during his time at the club,” said Bradley Carnell, Head Coach of Philadelphia Union. “Since joining the Union, he has played a key role in the team’s success, and we remain grateful for his leadership on and off the field. This move offers significant financial opportunities to continue investing in and strengthening our roster while reinforcing our competitive strategy. It also allows Jakob to continue competing at a high level in MLS, where we trust he will continue to succeed. We wish him all the best in the next chapter of his career.”
Glesnes, who is 31 years old, played six seasons with Philadelphia from 2020 to 2026. He made 181 appearances—178 as a starter—accumulating over 15,800 minutes with an 81.83% pass completion rate. He scored nine goals and provided ten assists during regular season play. Glesnes received several individual honors while with Philadelphia Union: he was named an MLS All-Star three times, selected twice for the MLS Best XI, and awarded Defender of the Year in 2022. Before joining Philadelphia Union, Glesnes played for Stromsgodset Toppfotball in Norway’s top division.
The transaction provides Philadelphia Union with immediate funds as well as potential future revenue based on performance-related conditions and future sales.
