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Ives Galarcep of Goal.com is reporting that multiple sources have confirmed the Galaxy are close to signing free agent Jeff Larentowicz.
Larentowicz, 32, is coming off a season that saw him score six goals for a Chicago Fire team that struggled through its second straight awful season. Larentowicz endured mixed results in his transition from defensive midfield to central defense, though that transition was also hampered by playing in one of the worst defenses in MLS for the past two seasons.
In an off-season mired with anxiety for Galaxy fans following the departures of Omar Gonzalez and Juninho as well as the rumored signing of controversial left back Ashley Cole, picking up Jeff Larentowicz would be a smart move for a roster with some glaring holes to fill.
Most obviously, Larentowicz is a solid, versatile player who would provide cover as a defensive midfielder and center back. In addition to his consistent defensive work, the former fringe U.S. national team player is dangerous on long-range blasts and set pieces from distance.
While I don't believe Bruce would pick up Larentowicz to start at either position, should the Galaxy fail to find suitable replacements, he could slot in at either spot without too much difficulty. And by signing "Big Red" as a free agent, hopefully the Galaxy won't have to fork over too much money to acquire the Pasadena native.
Good move? Bad move? What do you think?