LA Galaxy sign defender Michael Ciani

The LA Galaxy addressed the Jelle Van Damme-sized hole in their defensive ranks by acquiring French defender Michael Ciani, with the California side plucking the 33-year-old on a free transfer.

Ciani, who last played with FC Lorient, has a long list of European clubs to his name, including Espanyol, Sporting CP, Lazio, Bordeaux, and Auxerre. He joins the Galaxy during a crucial juncture of transition, as the once-mighty MLS Cup-winning side fell from its graces under Curt Onalfo.

Now under new management in Sigi Schmid, the Galaxy are in full rebuild, with Ciani one of presumably a number of new faces that could make their way to the west coast in time for the 2018 season.

"Michael is a strong, smart and talented player that we think can quickly integrate into our locker room and adapt to our league," Schmid offered. "He has spent time playing at the highest level during his career and his experience will be an asset to our team on and off the field."

Capped once for France in 2010, Ciani will step right into the center-back role left open when former club captain Van Damme requested a return to Belgium and joined Royal Antwerp earlier in the summer window.