On 31 January 2016, it was reported that De Jong had negotiated to terminate his contract with Milan and joined LA Galaxy on a free transfer, signing a one-year deal. De Jong was involved in a controversial incident in a game against the Portland Timbers on 10 April 2016 when a strong tackle by De Jong left Darlington Nagbe injured and in need of treatment. De Jong was only shown a yellow card by referee Allen Chapman, but was later suspended for three games. De Jong received a red-card after a bad tackle on Blas Perez on 5 July 2016, although with a man down, the Galaxy was still able to hold on for the win over Vancouver Whitecaps FC.