Report: LA Galaxy sign 17-year-old defender Julian Araujo to Homegrown deal

Tom Bogert

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Report

Intent on giving young players more chances with the first team in 2019, the LA Galaxy are reportedly ready to add to their defensive ranks from within.

According to Goal.com's Ives Galarcep, the Galaxy are set to sign 17-year-old defender Julian Araujo to a Homegrown contract. The US youth international has featured with the first team during preseason matches.

I’m told the #LAGalaxy have signed Julian Araujo to a first-team contract. The #USMNT U-20 defender is definitely one to watch in 2019 as the Galaxy look to give their young talent more opportunities. #MLS
— Ives Galarcep (@SoccerByIves) February 13, 2019

However, TopDrawerSoccer's J.R. Eskilson says the deal is not finalized yet.

Despite some reports suggesting otherwise, I've been told Julian Araujo has not signed a Homegrown deal with LA Galaxy/MLS yet. Sides remain in contact.
— J.R. Eskilson (@JREskilson) February 13, 2019

Araujo joined the Galaxy in 2018 and made two appearances with LA Galaxy II in USL play. He's represented the US youth national team at various levels, including most recently with the U-20 side.

Tom Bogert -

@tombogert

LA Galaxy US Under-20 Men’s National Team Homegrown Transfer Tracker