Stoke City signs defender Luca Bombino from San Diego FC

San Diego FC transferred defender Luca Bombino to EFL Championship side Stoke City on Tuesday. The 20-year-old United States youth international moves for a reported $5 million fee, with San Diego FC retaining a sell-on percentage of the player's rights. Bombino, an LAFC Academy product, played 43 regular-season matches for San Diego FC, contributing two goals and six assists during the club's 2025 expansion season. He initially joined San Diego FC on loan before the club secured his permanent transfer ahead of the 2026 season and signed him to a contract extension in January. Internationally, he represented the United States at various youth levels, including the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile. Sporting director Tyler Heaps described the move as a central component of the club's long-term player development strategy.

• 3:11 PMYahoo Sports — San Diego FC transfer Luca Bombino to Stoke City