LA Galaxy sign teen prodigy Alcala to first professional contract

TheLA Galaxy have completed the signing of teenage prodigy Alex Alcala, the club announced.

Alcala, 15, has been training with the Galaxy Academy since 2020 and has now signed his first professional contract.

- Stream ESPN FC Daily on ESPN+ (U.S. only)

- ESPN+ viewers' guide: Bundesliga, Serie A, MLS, FA Cup and more

- MLS pushes season start back to April 17

The talented midfielder will play for Galaxy II but will have the opportunity to play alongside compatriots Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez,Jonathan dos Santos and Efrain Alvarez in the first team.

"Alex is a young talent who we are pleased will develop in a professional environment," LA Galaxy general manager Dennis te Kloese told the club's official website.

"We believe that the structure and resources that we will provide him will allow him to continue to grow as both a player and a person. We look forward to Alex representing our club."

A delighted Alcala wrote on social media: "I'm super excited to announce that I've officially signed with the Galaxy2!! I would like to thank everyone that has helped me along the way to reach my goals. All my family , friends and coaches...."

Alcala, whose parents are Mexican, was born in Stockton, California. He has represented Mexico at the U15 and U16 level.

Alcala's skills videoson social media went viral in Mexico and attracted the attention of several clubs, includingManchester City and Barcelona, who invited him to train with them in 2019.

The Galaxy also signed Panama international Carlos Harvey from Tauro F.C. on a permanent deal.