CARSON, CALIFORNIA (January 19, 2018) – They finally have their starting striker. The LA Galaxy trade for Columbus Crew SC striker, Ola Kamara. They have sent forward Gyasi Zardes and $400,000 in Targeted Allocation Money to make it happen, the club announced today.
LA Galaxy Trade Gyasi Zardes and TAM for Ola Kamara
Kamara comes to the Galaxy having spent two seasons in MLS with Columbus. Prior to that, he spent his entire career in Europe, mostly in his native country of Norway. In 59 league appearances, Kamara scored 34 goals
“We are very excited to bring Ola to Los Angeles,” “He has been one of the league’s most productive forwards during his two seasons in MLS and we believe he will be a great fit in our attack. We look forward to him joining our squad,” said LA Galaxy Head Coach Sigi Schmid.
Zardes signed with the Galaxy in 2013 as a Homegrown after a year spent in college at California State Bakersfield. In five seasons with his hometown club, Zardes made 131 appearances, recording 34 goals and 17 assists. While mostly a striker, he spent time at wing and then at right back in 2017.
“We wish Gyasi all the best in Columbus and we are very appreciative of his efforts on and off the field for the LA Galaxy. Gyasi was an incredible part of this organization and a role model for many in the Los Angeles community,” said LA Galaxy President Chris Klein.
Zardes will look for a fresh start in a new situation with a new club. Kamara gets out of a situation he reportedly wasn’t happy with his situation either. He moves to a club where he will be the man up top, expected to score goals.
Transaction: LA Galaxy acquire Ola Kamara in exchange for Gyasi Zardes and $400,000 in Targeted Allocation Money
Name: Ola Kamara
Position: Forward
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 181 lbs.
Born: October 15, 1989
Age: 28
Last Club: Columbus Crew SC
Birthplace: Oslo, Norway
Nationality: Norway
