English defender Ashley Cole could be heading west. The Premier League veteran and former England international is set to join the L.A. Galaxy on a non-designated player deal, reported The Los Angeles Times. Galaxy is "close" to signing Cole, and a deal could be made before the Premier League transfer window opens on Jan. 2, according to Goal.com.
Cole has not played competitively since March and had his contract with Italian side Roma terminated in August despite one year remaining on the deal, according to MLS Soccer
Cole, 35, retired from international football in 2014 as England's most capped fullback making 107 appearances for his country. Due to his premier league and international experience, Cole won't come cheap. Galaxy could expect to spend all of its $800,000 of Targeted Allocation Money, according to the L.A. Times.
The former Chelsea star, who won player of the year in 2014, is ready to join the MLS, according to the Mirror. However the British newspaper reports the addition of Cole could throw off the dynamic in the Galaxy locker room. A natural fullback Cole would likely replace popular teammate and fan favorite Robbie Rogers that could cause a stir among supporters.
After the transfer of center back Omar Gonzalez earlier this month, the five-time MLS Cup champions could use some help on the back end. Adding Cole would make for a reunion with former England teammate Steven Gerrard who joined Galaxy in 2014. The two played together in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.
Galaxy manager Bruce Arena hinted to the L.A. Times that Cole wouldn't be the only addition the team makes ahead of the 2016 MLS season. "There are a lot of factors on why players come to our team as opposed to others," Arena said. "The Galaxy have a good reputation. Our players from Europe that have played here or are playing here are good spokespersons for our club."
