Adelaide United have confirmed 2025/26 Golden Boot winner Luka Jovanović has completed a permanent move to MLS side San Jose Earthquakes for a seven-figure transfer fee.
The 21-year-old departs Coopers Stadium after emerging as one of the Isuzu UTE A-League’s brightest young attacking talents, ending his time with the Reds having scored 25 goals in 84 appearances across four seasons.
A proud South Australian, Jovanović came through the local football pathway with FK Beograd, Croydon FC, MetroStars and Football SA before making his A-Leagues debut for Adelaide during the 2022/23 campaign.
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He scored his first senior league goal in a 4-2 win over Newcastle Jets in March 2023 and developed into a key figure in Adelaide’s attack.
Jovanović enjoyed a breakout 2025/26 campaign, finishing as the Isuzu UTE A-League’s joint Golden Boot winner with 11 goals alongside Auckland FC’s Sam Cosgrove.
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He secured a share of the award in dramatic fashion, scoring a last-minute winner against Melbourne City in the final round of the regular season.
The young striker also starred on the international stage, helping the Young Socceroos win the AFC Under-20 Asian Cup, scoring three goals during Australia’s successful tournament.
Jovanović paid tribute to Adelaide United after completing his move to the United States.
“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.
“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!”
Adelaide United Football Director Mitch van Gellekom said the club was proud to see another academy product earn an overseas opportunity.
“Luka deserves this opportunity and everyone at Adelaide United wishes him all the very best,” van Gellekom said.
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“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.”
Jovanović leaves Adelaide as the latest Australian youngster to secure a move abroad following his rise through the Reds’ development pathway.
Exciting winger Yaya Dukuly recent joined Slovenian Champions NK Celje whilst young striker Archie Goodwin departed for MLS last season, having also won a share of the A-Leagues Golden Boot in season 2024/25.
