Juan Pablo Angel Joins MLS As Los Angeles Galaxy's Third Designated Player

The Los Angeles Galaxy have completed the signing of former Aston Villa player Juan Pablo Ángel, with the 35-year-old striker joining the club as their third designated player. Ángel made it clear, even before the end of the 2010 MLS season, that he no longer wanted to stay on at New York Red Bulls, and so was picked up by the Galaxy during the MLS Re-Entry draft.

If you're not a follower of the MLS, don't worry too much about the details. MLS has at least three drafts prior to every season, and the point of the designated player is that the club is able to pay above and beyond the maximum salary for certain talented (or big name) individuals. JPA joins Landon Donovan and David Beckham as LA's big name stars.

Ángel, who at his most prolific scored 16 league goals in a season with Aston Villa, managed 19 in his first season at New York. His numbers have decreased in recent years, with the Colombian scoring just 13 in 30 appearances last season. Yet the Galaxy lost Edson Buddle to Germany, and need some sort of finisher to compensate. Ángel still has a few goals in him, and even if he doesn't, he certainly brings a bit of pretty to the club.

Now if you'll excuse me, Aaron and I have some campaigning to do. Feel free to add your name to the "John Carew to Seattle Sounders" petition.