Carlos Vela states intention to sign LAFC contract extension | OneFootball

Carlos Vela has declared he will stay at LAFC if the decision is left up to him.

The Mexican forward has been crucial to the Black and Gold since entering Major League Soccer in 2018, scoring 71 goals in 113 appearances across all competitions. In 2018, Vela netted a league record 34 goals in 31 regular-season appearances as LAFC won the Supporters' Shield.

Vela's current deal expires at the end of the 2022 MLS season with no deal between player and club yet agreed.

But MLSSoccer.com's Tom Bogert reports that an agreement is close that will see Vela remain at Banc of California Stadium as a Designated Player through the 2023 season. The Mexico international has also stated his desire to stick around.

“Like I always say, I’m really happy here,” Vela said. “I love to play in LA, I love to play in this stadium with these fans. If it’s in my hands, for sure I will be here. I will help this club to win a trophy. For my part, I’m doing my stuff. We will see how we end. But I think we’re a little bit better.”

The former Arsenal and Real Sociedad forward added: “It’s football, it’s sports. Until you don’t sign, you don’t have nothing for sure. But we are working, the club and myself, both sides we are doing some effort to make this work. But in the end, I think when both parties want to be together [it] can be a good end."

Vela has four goals and two assists in 11 appearances so far this season with LAFC joint-top of the Western Conference and Supporters' Shield standings.