LA Galaxy: Top 5 Zlatan Ibrahimovic replacements

Djaniny

Everyone likes a dreamer pick, and while reports of the LA Galaxy making a move for former Liga MX star Jorge Djaniny Tavares Semedo seem to resemble more of a rumor, the possibility of this deal making it over the line is still a strong one to consider. If you’ve been following Liga MX over the past few years, you’ll know that Djaniny has been an absolute terror for defenses over the years. The 6’3” Cape Verde international has the size and speed to wreak havoc in the attacking third, while also possessing the abilities to take on defenders and create scoring opportunities on his own. He helped Liga MX side Santos Laguna win the 2018 Clausura, netting 14 goals along the way, and now suits up for Saudi Arabian power Al-Ahli, where he has scored a whopping 21 goals in just 25 appearances. In wake of his recent successes, Instagram account @mls_news_ reported that the Galaxy were in negotiations with Djaniny; a report that was then reposted by his agent, Pedro Cordeiro. While no further word has been uttered regarding the transfer, the report may just be a rumor to pour cold water on. However, the Galaxy have the funding and status to make any player at least entertain an offer, so there may be more to this rumor than anticipated.

Why It Will Happen

Djaniny to the Galaxy makes sense for three major reasons:

1. He has the ability to play both center-forward and right-wing. The Galaxy have not only lost Zlatan for this upcoming season; they have also lost Mexican International winger Uriel Antuna. If the LA Galaxy choose to pass by on Romain Alessandrini as well, they will have vacancies at two of their most important attacking positions. By signing the multi-positional Djaniny, the Galaxy will have greater flexibility in pursuing a final attacking piece prior to the season opener.
2. Djaniny fits the profile of the modern-day MLS Designated Player. The league has begun to move away from signing the aging European superstar and is now more willing to spend six-figure transfer fees than ever before. And while Djaniny might not be able to bring the same level of name recognition that some of the other strikers on this list can bring, his lower level of fame serves as an advantage for the MLS side, where the league’s salary cap limits spending on more of the top names available. At only 28 years old, Djaniny could be purchased at a lower cost than some of the other Galaxy targets, but could also potentially match the expected production as the rest.
3. Finally, Djaniny has proven that he can compete against Liga MX sides. In a climate where Major League Soccer is fostering a greater rivalry with their neighbors to the south, having players on your roster than can compete against Liga MX sides is now a must. Based on his performances in the past with Santos, Djaniny has proven that he can score goals in big games against Mexico’s best. And as GM Dennis te Kloese knows from scouting Liga MX matches during his time as the Director of National Teams for the Mexican Football Federation, it takes a player of Djaniny’s caliber upfront to take down a Mexican giant come CONCACAF Champions League or League’s Cup play.

Why It Won’t Happen

Like Balotelli, the LA Galaxy aren’t the only team scouting the world’s top talent at bargain prices. If Djaniny has the desire to pursue his next opportunity with a UEFA Champions League contender, the 28-year-old Cape Verde international won’t have very far to look.

Ultimately, while Djaniny makes the most sense, and Balotelli will guarantee sell-out crowds at Dignity Health Sports Park, Mauro Zarate appears to be the most likely signing for the Galaxy in 2020. From his age to his positional flexibility; his talent to his prior relationship with Guillermo Baros Schelotto, this deal just makes too much sense not to happen. The offseason is long and winding, but Zarate seems destined for the LA Galaxy.