LA Galaxy sign right-back Lucas Calegari to replace Julian Araujo

The LA Galaxy found a temporary replacement for Julian Araujo, signing right-back Lucas Calegari on loan from Brazilian powerhouse Fluminese through the 2023 Major League Soccer season. 

The deal contains a purchase option. Calegari will occupy a U22 Initiative roster slot for LA, just like Araujo did.

"We are pleased to announce Lucas as the newest addition to the LA Galaxy," head coach and sporting director Greg Vanney said in a release.

"Lucas is a young and talented fullback with significant experience at a high level already. We look forward to his contributions to the success of the team and supporting his continued growth as a player."

Calegari arrives after an extensive career with Fluminense, recording one goal and two assists in 80 games across the Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana and Brazilian Serie A. The right back stands as Galaxy’s fourth addition ahead of the 2023 campaign, joining Memo Rodriguez, Chris Mavinga and Tyler Boyd. 

"Lucas is an important addition to the team," LA technical director Jovan Kirovski said in a release. "He’s an exciting profile that fits a position of need."

The Galaxy will face sanctions during the Secondary Transfer Window that prohibits the team from completing any new deals, explaining their urgency to complete deals before the Primary Transfer Window closes on April 24.

The team kicks off the 2023 MLS campaign on Saturday, March 4 against FC Dallas after their season-opener vs. LAFC was postponed due to weather conditions in Los Angeles.