LAFC announced today, that the 18-year old Texas native defender will be using a number one spot in the MLS Waiver Order. The club acquired that spot from Toronto FC in an exchange for $50,000 in general allocation money (GAM) in 2022 and the No.21 spot in the MLS Waiver Order. The youngster played 12 for the club's USL affiliate Las Vegas Lights. His contract with them was terminated prior to signing with MLS contract. "Julian is a talented and exciting young player who has played well with Las Vegas," said LAFC Co-President & General Manager John Thorrington. "We are looking forward to continuing to work with him at LAFC as he continues to develop as a person and a player."

Gaines was a member of LAFC's preseason roster ahead of this year's MLS regular season. He previously played for the Barca Residency Academy in Arizona. Joining them in 2019, and helping the U-19 to two successful seasons. Teammate Bryce Duke is also another product of the Barca Residency Academy. He made his professional debut with USL side Austin Bold in 2019, making one appearance and playing 32 minutes. He also played internationally with the United States U-15 and U-17 national teams between 2016-2017.

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