LA Galaxy sign former AC Milan midfielder Nigel de Jong

The LA Galaxy are making plans for Nigel.

Days after signing veteran left-back Ashley Cole, perennial MLS title challengers LA Galaxy added another long-tenured defensive-minded international, acquiring free-agent midfielder Nigel de Jong.

De Jong's deal with the record five-time MLS Cup winners will reportedly see him earn $500,000 during the upcoming season, according to Kevin Baxter of the Los Angeles Times.

"Nigel is an experienced midfielder who will help the players around him get better," LA Galaxy head coach and general manager Bruce Arena said on the team's website.

"He will add qualities on the field that can strengthen our team in all areas. We look forward to Nigel coming to Los Angeles and joining our club."

The 31-year-old joined the Rossoneri in 2012 from Manchester City, slotting into a defensive midfield role for the club before falling out of favour this season despite signing a contract extension in the summer.

The 80-time capped Dutch merchant of robust tackles has appeared in only five Serie A matches this season on the heels of 61 starts over the last two campaigns, prompting his departure from the San Siro.

The Italian club announced Monday that both parties agreed to part ways by mutual consent.

De Jong becomes the third footballer to cross the Atlantic to join the Galaxy this summer, following Cole and former Standard Liege defender Jelle Van Damme as the club continues to reinforce the backline in light of Omar Gonzalez's move to Pachuca in December.