MLS transfer roundup: LA Galaxy solve goalkeeping crisis, LAFC sign Bogusz
With the MLS Primary Transfer Window deadline quickly approaching, teams are making their final moves.
The LA Galaxy quickly solves the goalkeeping crisis by signing Serbian youth international goalkeeper Novak Mićović on loan, while LAFC bring on yet another international figure to strengthen the midfield. After match day six of the 2023 campaign, these changes may make all the difference.
Here's the transfers you missed...
1. LA Galaxy alleviate goalkeeping crisis with Novak Micovic
The LA Galaxy have signed Serbian youth international goalkeeper Novak Mićović on loan from Serbian SuperLiga side FK Čukarički for the 2023 MLS season. He joins after recording 4 shutouts in 54 career professional appearances across all competitions with FK Čukarički (2018-23) and second-division side FK IMT Belgrad (2020-21).
“We are pleased to bring Novak to the LA Galaxy,” LA head coach and sporting director Greg Vanney said in a release.
“He has shown his quality and presence with both the first team and with the Serbian youth national teams. We look forward to integrating him into the group upon receipt of a visa.”
His arrival alleviates the Galaxy’s goalkeeping crisis, as starter Jonathan Bond remains sidelined with a shoulder injury and backup Jonathan Klinsmann is reportedly out after suffering a finger injury in last weekend’s 0-0 draw against the Portland Timbers. The Western Conference team also signed Aaron Cervantes to a short-term loan from MLS NEXT Pro affiliate LA Galaxy II, but Mićović’s signing could prove stronger in the long run.
2. Isaac Atanga leaves FC Cincinnati
FC Cincinnati have recalled winger Isaac Atanga from his loan to Turkish club Göztepe SK and transferred him to Norwegian side Aalesunds FK for an undisclosed fee.
The 22-year-old now departs Cincy after just one goal and two assists in 23 appearances. He was originally acquired in March 2021 from Danish Superligaen side FC Nordsjaelland via the U22 Initiative, before being sent off on loan.
“First, we’d like to thank Isaac for his contributions to FC Cincinnati,” Cincy general manager Chris Albright said in a release. “Isaac’s a good kid, and we look forward to the next step in his development with Aalesunds. We wish him all the best for the future.”
Atanga had two goals and one assist in 17 matches for Göztepe. In Aalesunds, he joins a Norwegian team that finished their 2022 campaign mid-table.
3. LAFC sign Mateusz Bogusz
LAFC finally signed Polish youth international midfielder Mateusz Bogusz from English Premier League side Leeds United.
He joins on a three-year contract through the 2026 Major League Soccer season, with an additional option for 2027.
“Mateusz is a talented young player with great ability who will provide another quality piece to our club,” LAFC co-president & general manager John Thorrington said in a release. “He is a dynamic and exciting attacker who has the ability to help our group in our ambitions to win more trophies. I am excited to welcome Mateusz to Los Angeles.”