Did LAFC just pull off the biggest MLS transfer bargain with Yaw Yeboah? | OneFootball

Los Angeles FC has announced the signing of Ghanaian midfielder Yaw Yeboah, 27, on a two-year contract with an option to extend through 2027. The deal saw the acquisition of Yeboah's rights from San Diego FC for $50,000 in General Allocation Money, GAM, after he was selected in Stage 2 of the 2024 MLS Re-Entry Draft. He will fill an international roster slot, joining as a reinforcement expected to bring quality to Black & Gold's midfield.

A reliable profile with consistent numbers

Yaw Yeboah brings along with him three seasons of experience from Columbus Crew, scoring 6 goals and 13 assists in 93 appearances across all competitions for his club. He was an important protagonist for the team that won the MLS Cup in 2023 and the Leagues Cup in 2024. However, more than the statistics, it is his consistency on the field; he can adapt to different tactical roles in midfield according to the needs of the team.

LAFC's co-president and general manager, John Thorrington spoke to what brought Yeboah to the club: "Yaw is a dynamic and versatile player with MLS experience and success, qualities that fit well with our team."

International background and MLS experience

Before joining MLS, Yeboah had already played in Europe with Wisła Kraków of Poland, FC Twente of the Netherlands, and Lille of France. This international experience not only shaped his style of play but also prepared him for the physical and tactical demands that come with MLS.

He has earned four caps on the international stage with Ghana's senior national team, and represented the Black Stars during the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup while at Manchester City.

How Yeboah fits into LAFC's system

With the 2025 season coming into view, LAFC has some pretty clear-cut goals: compete for trophies and stay competitive as one of the top clubs in MLS. Yeboah comes in with the responsibility to add versatility into the midfield-one of the most important aspects for LAFC's dynamic and high-intensity style of play. Although the roster is solid just as it currently sits, his ability to shift between offensive and defensive roles during a season makes him a tactical asset for season-long adjustments.

Early tests for LAFC in 2025 have arrived a bit prematurely. Opening on February 18 in the Concacaf Champions Cup against Colorado Rapids, then their MLS campaign on February 22 against Minnesota United, much will be needed in terms of depth and reliable options on the team - something Yeboah seems prepared for.

Smart move within MLS rules

LAFC has acquired Yeboah through the MLS Re-Entry Draft for $50,000 in GAM, showing the calculated approach of the club in the transfer market. Instead of seeking reinforcements abroad, which usually come with their high cost and risk of adaptation, the club opted to stick with one who is already acquainted with the dynamics of the league. This move underlines how intelligently MLS-specific rules and resources are utilized to build competitive squads.

It also means that by dedicating an international roster spot to Yeboah, LAFC is wagering on a player who has shown he can already adjust to the pressures of American soccer and therefore carries less risk than many other international signings.