Adelaide United can confirm forward Luka Jovanović has departed the Club to join MLS side San Jose Earthquakes for a seven-figure fee.
A proud South Australian and product of the local football system, Jovanović leaves Adelaide United after making a significant impact across four seasons with the Reds.
The 21-year-old progressed through FK Beograd, Croydon FC, MetroStars and the Football SA program before earning his opportunity with Adelaide United, making his Isuzu UTE A-League debut during the 2022/23 campaign.
Jovanović quickly announced himself as one of the country’s most exciting young forwards, scoring his first A-League goal in a 4-2 win over Newcastle Jets in March 2023.
Across his time with the Club, Jovanović made 84 appearances and scored 25 goals, becoming a key attacking figure for the Reds and a player admired by Members and fans for his work ethic, competitivenessand finishing ability.
Jovanović said:
“Thank you for an unforgettable seven years. I can’t express how grateful I am for all the support and the memories we’ve shared. The Club should be incredibly proud of what it stands for and the impact it has on so many people,” he said.
“I hope the Club and its fans achieve the success they truly deserve. I wish everyone all the best for the future, and I’ll always support the Reds no matter what!”
His final season in red saw him reach new heights, finishing as joint Golden Boot winner in the 2025/26 Isuzu UTE A-League season with 11 goals. He secured the accolade in memorable fashion, scoring a historic last-minute winner in the final round against Melbourne City.
Jovanović also continued to make his mark on the international stage, playing an influential role in the Young Socceroos’ AFC U-20 Asian Cup Championship-winning campaign, scoring three goals throughout the tournament.
His rise follows early recognition in South Australian football, having won the John Aloisi Rising Star Award in the RAA NPLSA in 2022.
Adelaide United Football Director, Mitch van Gellekom, said the Club was extremely proud to see Jovanović earn an opportunity overseas.
“Luka deserves this opportunity and everyone at Adelaide United wishes him all the very best,” van Gellekom said.
“He has worked incredibly hard and his journey is something the Club, and South Australian football, should be extremely proud of.
“Developing young players and preparing them for opportunities overseas is a big part of who we are as a Club, and Luka is a great example of what can be achieved through talent, commitment and belief.
“The seven-figure fee received will be reinvested directly into our football program, helping us continue to strengthen our pathway and support the next generation of players.”
Adelaide United congratulates Luka on his next step and thanks him for his outstanding contribution to the Club.
