LAFC acquires defender Yevhen Cheberko from Columbus Crew for roster slot

Crew trade Cup-winning defender to LAFC for international spot.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jun 91 min read

What happened: The Columbus Crew have traded Ukrainian defender Yevhen Cheberko to Los Angeles FC in exchange for a 2026 international roster slot. The 28-year-old center-back will officially join the LAFC roster when the MLS secondary transfer window opens on July 13.

Why it matters: The move allows Columbus to free up valuable international flexibility as they sit in the middle of the Eastern Conference with 23 points. For LAFC, Cheberko provides a veteran presence and championship experience to a defense that has struggled, currently ranking 12th in the Western Conference.

By the numbers: Cheberko leaves Columbus with 85 appearances and two major trophies, including the 2023 MLS Cup. LAFC enters the trade window having earned only 17 points through 15 matches, while the Crew hold a 15-game record of 6-4-5 in the current 2026 campaign.

What to watch: Cheberko will continue training with Columbus until the transfer window opens next month before relocating to Los Angeles.

Sources

GNews MLS 2026-06-09T17:40:53.577429+00:00

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