Galaxy’s Steven Gerrard, Giovani dos Santos among best-paid in MLS

According to figures released Friday by Major League Soccer’s players union, newly acquired Galaxy midfielders Steven Gerrard and Giovani dos Santos are among the top 10 best-paid players in the league — even though neither has played an MLS game yet.

Gerrard’s 18-month contract will pay him an annual salary of $6.33 million, behind only Orlando City’s Kaka ($7.16 million) and Toronto FC’s Sebastian Giovinco ($7.11 million) and Michael Bradley ($6.5 million). Gerrard is expected to make his MLS debut Friday against San Jose after playing in last week’s friendly with Club America and Tuesday’s U.S. Open Cup game with Real Salt Lake.

Dos Santos’ 4 1/2-year deal will earn him an average annual salary of $4.1 million, good for 10th in the league. His salary is significantly lower than the $6 million that had been reported earlier.

Dos Santos, currently on duty with the Mexican national team, will join the Galaxy next month. Teammate Robbie Keane, the league’s MVP, is making $4.5 million.

The top 10:

Kaka (Orlando City) $7.16 million

Sebastian Giovinco (FC Toronto) $7.11 million

Michael Bradley (FC Toronto) $6.5 million

Steven Gerrard (Galaxy) $6.33 million

Frank Lampard (New York City FC) $6 million

David Villa (New York City FC) $5.61 million

Jozy Altidore (Toronto FC) $4.75 million

Clint Dempsey (Seattle) $4.6 million

Robbie Keane (Galaxy) $4.5 million

Giovani Dos Santos (Galaxy) $4.1 million

The complete list, by teams is here.

Twitter: @chewkii