In an apparent attempt to shuffle the deck defensively after what has been an abysmal start to their season, the LA Galaxy have traded Paolo Cardozo to Chivas USA for defender David Junior Lopes.

Cardozo is a 22-year-old Uruguayan who was formerly with Argentinian side River Plate's reserve team, Quilmes. After briefly going on trial with the Columbus Crew, Cardozo was chosen by the Galaxy in the first round of the 2010 MLS SuperDraft.

The slightly-built attacking midfielder made a total of 18 appearances for the reigning MLS champs, registering a total of nine shots on goal but failing to find the back of the net or make an assist while wearing a Galaxy shirt.

Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena is apparently willing to take a chance on missing out on the potential that the forward displayed at times in an effort to shore up the Galaxy's badly ailing defense.

A Brazilian-born defender who stands at 6'3", Lopes would seem like an apparent suitor for filling the gaping hole left in the Galaxy's back line by the absence of Omar Gonzalez. The 23-year-old Gonzalez suffered a long term injury during an offseason training loan with Bundesliga side Nurnberg, and the 2011 MLS Defender of the Year will be sidelined until at least midsummer.

Lopes, 29, has enjoyed spells in South America and in Europe, most notably with FC Porto in Portugal. The lanky defender joined Chivas in late 2011, making a total of eight appearances for the club.

The Galaxy's defense, which was among the stingiest in the league last season, has been highly suspect so far this term. In four league matches, the defending MLS Cup and Supporter's Shield holders have scored five goals and given up a total of eight. Currently the Galaxy sit at the bottom of the Western Conference table, and hold a record of 1-3-0 for the season.

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