LAFC: Mario Mandzukic the perfect addition

Mario Mandzukic is eyeing an exit from Juventus with LAFC reported as a possible destination. Here is why he would be perfect for the Black and Gold.

Los Angeles FC appear to be close to adding a world-class striker to their team sheet. Juventus’ Mario Mandzukic is reportedly in talks with the Western Conference powerhouse to join in the offseason. The 33-year-old striker would be ending a four-year tenure at Juventus that saw him score 44 goals in 162 appearances.

If the reports are true, LAFC would be adding yet another star offensive player to their roster. Mandzukic would enter as a Designated Player and would join the likes of Carlos Vela at the head of the LAFC attack.

At the moment, LAFC have all of their Designated Player roster spots filled, with Brian Rodriguez joining Vela and Diego Rossi earlier this season. Like Atlanta United and the LA Galaxy last offseason, this means that one DP will be leaving at the end of the season for them to approach Mandzukic.

The clear number one candidate is Rossi. The Uruguayan forward has appeared in transfer rumors since the start of the summer transfer window and a move to Europe has always been the next step in his career. That would be all but confirmed if LAFC signs Mandzukic.

The one team who has been most heavily linked with a Rossi move is Fiorentina in Serie A. This would free up the Designated Player spot instantly and take away the need for LAFC to go after another player over the offseason.

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LAFC’s front office deserves a lot of credit here for their urgency in trying to reach a deal with Juventus. There’s a big opportunity to bring in a big-name player and a huge talent to their roster. They just signed Rodriguez over the summer and now have the chance to assemble the best front three in MLS.

Rossi would leave a void with his speed and offensive ability, but Mandzukic helps provide a different element to the attack. Rodriguez could supplant Rossi on the left flank, while Mandzukic, a proven goalscorer with terrific finishing ability that has taken him to the highest levels in the game, could spearhead the attack.

Rodriguez, in a sense, has already filled a void left by Rossi as he brings a spark and an element of youthfulness that LAFC need to balance their roster. And it is the striker position where LAFC need the most help. It has not been the most productive position for LAFC over the past two seasons. Adama Diomande is currently the number one option, but he has been inconsistent through various stretches of the season, while Christian Ramirez was traded away earlier in the season.

Mandzukic will be expected to be highly productive and his impact could take LAFC to an even higher level if he arrives fit and in form. He solves a problem position and replenishes the third DP spot should Rossi leave. This would be a frightening signing for the rest of MLS.