Nashville SC sign former LAFC D Julian Gaines

Field Level Media|published: 02/20/2024, 1:03pm EST

Nov 2, 2022; Los Angeles, California, US; LAFC forward Kwadwo Opokug (22) and defender Julian Gaines (80) laugh during practice at the Nectar Performance Center. credits: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Nashville SC announced the signing Tuesday of defender Julian Gaines through the 2024 MLS season.

Gaines, 21, appeared in two matches (one start) for Los Angeles FC in his debut campaign in 2023.

He is the younger brother of Nashville forward McKinze Gaines.

"Julian is a dynamic young player who can contribute on the flanks as both a winger and outside back," general manager Mike Jacobs said in a release. "He is someone we think could have a bright future, and we look forward to him being a part of our club."

Gaines also has played for LAFC2 in MLS NEXT Pro and for the Las Vegas Lights in the USL Championship.

Nashville will open the 2024 regular season on Sunday against the visiting New York Red Bulls.

—Field Level Media