Navas is currently entering the final months of his contract with Pumas UNAM in Mexico. According to ESPN, the former Real Madrid star has already rejected an initial renewal offer from Pumas due to significant disagreements over both salary and contract length.

The sweepstakes for the Costa Rican legend intensified after David Faitelson reported that an MLS club has extended an offer for Navas to join as a free agent in July 2026.

Esto en Línea later added information to the report, identifying Inter Miami as the frontrunner. The South Florida club is reportedly prioritizing Navas’s elite international experience to bolster a backline that has struggled in high-stakes continental competition.

Is there actually a spot for Navas on the roster?

Inter Miami significantly bolstered their goalkeeping department this season by signing Dayne St. Clair as the starter and Luis Barraza as the primary backup. St. Clair arrived with high expectations after being named the 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year with Minnesota United and serving as the starting keeper for the Canadian national team. However, his performance has underwhelmed thus far, having conceded seven goals in just five official matches.

Beyond performance concerns, a major hurdle remains: MLS roster rules. Inter Miami have all three of their Designated Player (DP) slots occupied by Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and German Berterame.

Despite this situation, there are two viable paths for Navas to join the Herons without a DP slot. Since Navas would likely arrive as a free agent in July after his contract with Pumas UNAM expires, Miami could use Targeted Allocation Money (TAM). This mechanism allows teams to sign players who earn more than the league’s maximum salary charge but less than a DP.

Alternatively, Navas could opt for a significant salary reduction to reunite with former teammates and live in Miami, following the precedent set by Luis Suarez. By accepting a non-DP contract, he would fit seamlessly into the existing roster structure without requiring the club to move one of its current stars.

From the opening whistle, Mexico dominated possession and dictated the tempo, patiently working the ball through midfield in search of openings. Despite their control, El Tri struggled to penetrate Costa Rica’s organized defense and were repeatedly denied by Navas’ acrobatic saves. Costa Rica, meanwhile, relied on quick counterattacks and maintained solid defensive discipline to frustrate their opponents.

The intensity of the match grew as both teams fought hard in midfield, with physical challenges and tactical battles shaping much of the action. Costa Rica received several yellow cards amid rising tensions, and Mexico’s final passes often lacked the precision needed to break down the resilient Ticos.

As the match wound down, Mexico ramped up the pressure in search of a late winner. Santiago Giménez found the back of the net in the dying moments, only to have the goal ruled out for offside. The 0-0 result means both teams earn valuable points and advance in the tournament, but the match was defined by Navas’ heroics and the fine margins that kept the score even.

In recent years, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have monopolized the debate of who is “the greatest soccer player of all time” due to their respective success with their clubs and national teams. However, while some legends have their choice clear, some have changed their minds a couple of times. That’s the case of Keylor Navas, who played alongside both legends.

The goalkeeper shared the locker room with Ronaldo during his time at Real Madrid, as they played together four seasons, winning three Champions League titles, one domestic league, three European Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cups. Then, he signed with Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 and played with Messi during a season and a half, winning two Ligue 1 titles and one Coup de France.

However, long before he became Messi’s teammate, he already showed his appreciation for the Argentine star’s talent. In 2013, when he played for Levante, he praised Messi in a press conference before a match between Levante and Barcelona at the Camp Nou.

“Messi, I think, is a very good player. He is the best in the world, and that is a gift that God gave him since he was a child—you can see it in videos, and he doesn’t have to prove anything,” Navas said, according to Mundo Deportivo. “He has done many things that will take years, and no one will do them. If Messi plays, I will be focused, and if he doesn’t play, I will be as well. Those who play always have quality.”

However, in 2015, when he was already Ronaldo’s teammate, he said a similar thing about the Portuguese, saying he was “privileged and blessed by God for the talent he has.” However, he also said that Ronaldo was “the best because I share time with him every day. I see the way he works, how professional he is, and everything he does to improve. Other players in his position might say they’ve already achieved everything and stop training, but he proves the opposite. He has a unique talent and qualities that not all players have,” he told La Nación.

Did Navas change his mind after playing alongside Messi?

The goalkeeper hasn’t spoken again on the GOAT debate since then, but when Messi decided to leave PSG in 2023, he wrote on his social media that it was an “honor” to have played alongside the Argentine star.

It turns out that he still has a good relationship with Messi, as he also confessed that the Inter Miami star was one of the reasons he chose to join Newell’s Old Boys, Messi’s boyhood club in Argentina.

“I knew about the club, its history, and the legends who played here. Before coming, I spoke to Messi, and he had nothing but positive things to say,” he told reporters in late January, when being presented by the club.

Cristiano Ronaldo vs Messi: Stats and titles

Messi has won multiple league titles with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, along with four UEFA Champions League trophies. He also led Argentina to two Copa America trophies and World Cup glory. In contrast, Ronaldo has claimed league titles in England, Spain, and Italy, winning the Champions League five times. He played a key role in Portugal’s triumphs at Euro 2016 and the 2019 UEFA Nations League.

When it comes to individual stats, Ronaldo has scored 924 goals in his career, being the all-time goalscorer in professional soccer. Meanwhile, Messi has scored 850 goals. Both stars are still playing, trying to extend their already impressive legacies.

At 37, Navas, who once shared the field with Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Neymar at PSG and was a key figure in Real Madrid’s three consecutive Champions League titles, remains a free agent. This status allows him to sign with any club outside of traditional transfer windows.

The Costa Rican shot-stopper has drawn interest from leagues such as Italy’s Serie A, MLS, and teams in Saudi Arabia and Mexico. However, Navas seems to be holding out for the right opportunity to end his career on a high note, as none of the current offers have fully convinced him so far.

FC Barcelona’s interest

Recently, rumors linking Keylor Navas to FC Barcelona gained traction following an injury to Marc-André ter Stegen, who suffered a torn patellar tendon in his right knee. The Spanish club is now in need of an experienced goalkeeper, and according to Spanish media, Barça reached out to Navas to gauge his interest in joining.

Despite being a former Real Madrid standout—Barça’s fiercest rival—Navas did not rule out the possibility of donning the Blaugrana jersey if it meant getting playing time and the chance to compete at the highest level.

However, Barcelona ultimately opted to sign Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, who, at 34, came out of retirement to take on the challenge. This left Navas, once again, without a club.

What’s next for Keylor Navas?

At 37, Keylor Navas’ future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: he still has plenty left to offer. With the flexibility to join any team at any time, Navas has an open path to find the right project.

The question now is: Where will Costa Rica’s greatest goalkeeper continue to write his legacy? Only time will tell what his next challenge will be.

Keylor Navas is currently the sixth most capped player in the Costa Rican national team. The goalkeeper was a key piece in Brazil’s 2010 World Cup, saving a penalty kick against Greece in the round of 16 to help Costa Rica reach the quarterfinals, the best record in the country’s history.

Despite Keylor Navas’ proud history with his national team, Argentine coach Gustavo Alfaro will not be able to count on him for this Copa America 2024. Many may wonder why the former Real Madrid keeper is out of the roster.

Keylor Navas out of Copa America 2024

The reason why Keylor Navas is not going to be with Costa Rica this Copa America is because he retired from the national team this year. Keylor’s last game with the national team was on March 27 in Los Angeles, where Gustavo Alfaro’s team lost 3-1 to Argentina in a friendly match.

The former PSG goalkeeper bid farewell to his national team with an emotional message through his social networks:

“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the memories we have built. Together we have made history, facing the best players in the world, raising the name of Costa Rica to the highest level”.

On Friday, Los Ticos have a tune-up match for World Cup qualifying and the Copa America later this summer. Costa Rica will take on Uruguay in a match that can be streamed exclusively on BOLAVIP.

Why isn’t Keylor Navas part of Gustavo Alfaro’s side? We have the answer. Watch Costa Rica vs Uruguay live for FREE here, on BOLAVIP.

Keylor Navas Not with Costa Rica

Keylor Navas announced his retirement from international soccer only a week ago. “It’s a bittersweet feeling, difficult to assimilate. This stage of my life with the national team has come to an end,” Navas stated in a social media post.

“This chapter of my life, full of challenges, defeats, and victories, comes to an end. I leave with a heart full of gratitude and with my eyes looking forward, always carrying the name of our beloved Costa Rica, a small country in territory but big in heart.”

Navas is rumored to be heading to Liga MX side León to continue his great goalkeeping career.

For years he has been a goalkeeper who participates in the world soccer elite. Every fan of this sport recognizes the name of Keylor Navas when he hears it, having played in important teams in his country and Europe, highlighting his time at Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

Undoubtedly, Navas would have been of great importance to the Costa Rican team, which is considered one of the main contenders to reach the latter stages of the competition. However, unfortunately, the goalkeeper who dazzled for his country during the 2014 World Cup will not be available to represent Costa Rica in the 2023 Gold Cup.

Costa Rica loses one of their stars

Keylor Navas was left out of the Gold Cup because he was unable to recover from an injury sustained while playing for his current team, England’s Nottingham Forest.

According to the doctor of the Costa Rican team, Alejandro Ramirez: “We saw that he is recovering very well, but unfortunately it is not enough to be able to participate in this competition (Concacaf Gold Cup), as he will need between three and four weeks for a full recovery.”

The Costa Rican star found the playing time he was looking for at Nottingham Forest, where he rediscovered the best version of himself. Navas played a pivotal role in helping them stay in the top-flight, and his performances didn’t go unnoticed.

Even at 36, the veteran goalkeeper seems to be on the radar of many English clubs. Navas has to return to PSG this summer, but since Donnarumma is still their starter, chances are he leaves for good this time.

Report: Keylor Navas on the radar of four English clubs

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Navas has decided to make the Premier League his priority once his six-month loan at Nottingham Forest officially expires.

The report claims he has drawn interest from Chelsea, Tottenham, Brentford, and Leicester. The Blues may go after a keeper this summer to have a fresh start at the position, while Spurs would be looking for a replacement of Hugo Lloris.

The Bees may have chances since they could guarantee Navas the starting job, while the Foxes would run from behind after being relegated to the Championship.

This Saturday, two mistakes by the goalkeeperin the final minutes of the game against Brentford could determine the club’s future. Though they were winning thanks to a goal by Danilo in minute 10′, then disaster arrived.

Keylor Navas failed in a free kick made by Ivan Toney in minute 82’ and then could have done more in a shot by Josh Dasilva (90+4′). Now, the situation is critical for Nottingham Forest trying to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

2022-2023 Premier League: Which teams will be relegated?

After Nottingham’s Forest loss against Brentford, they only have a one-point advantage over Leicester City, two points fromEverton and six points separatethem of Southampton at the bottom of the table.

The problem is all of those three teams have pending matches including a crucial Leicester City vs Everton on Monday at King Power Stadium. Any result in that game will automatically send Nottingham Forest to the relegation zone.

So, these are the remaining fourgames for Nottingham Forest trying to stay alive in the Premier League: Southampton (direct rival in the fight to avoid relegation), Chelsea, Arsenal and Crystal Palace.

Messi was the first one to score in magnificent play in minute 3′, but Riyadh All Star XI immediately answered. After many attacks led by Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese star had a tough moment with PSG’s goalkeeper, Keylor Navas.

Navas tried to save a ball in the air and Cristiano Ronaldo went for the header. In that moment, the right hand of the goalkeeper produced a massive hit in the striker’s face. The referee confirmed the penalty kick and Ronaldo scored. The memes and reactions took over social media.

Keylor Navas clashes with Cristiano Ronaldo: Funniest memes and reactions

After the hit by Keylor Navas to Cristiano Ronaldo, the face of the Al Nassr player got inflamed on his left side. Nevertheless, the striker took the spotlight and converted the penalty for Riyadh All Stars.

Costa Ricaarein Group E, the toughest in the 2022 World Cup, alongside Spain, Germany and Japan. Luis Fernando Suarez’s team is no stranger to these complicated scenarios. In Brazil 2014, they survived and won a group which included three World Champions such as Uruguay, Italy and England. That was the best participation ever for the Ticos reaching the quarterfinals. They lost in a penalty shootout thriller with the Netherlands.

During the 2022 qualification process, Costa Rica werealmost eliminated after seven matches. With six points at the half-mark, the challenge looked impossible. Then, everything changed. They got 21 of the last 24 points available with six victories in the last seven games. That way, Costa Rica secured a ticket to the inter-confederation playoffs, where they beat New Zealand (1-0) and clinched a berth for the World Cup.

Costa Rica’s roster for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar

There are no secretswith Costa Rica. The veteran players left from that 2014 magical run at Brazil are the ones leading the charge in Qatar. Keylor Navas, Bryan Ruiz, Joel Campbell, CelsoBorges, Oscar Duarte and Yeltsin Tejeda will be on their third World Cup. This is the official 26-man roster announced by manager Luis Fernando Suarez.

Goalkeepers: Keylor Navas (PSG), Esteban Alvarado (Herediano) and Patrick Sequeira (Club Deportivo Lugo).

Defenders: Francisco Calvo (Konyaspor), Juan Pablo Vargas (Millonarios), Kendall Waston (Saprissa), Oscar Duarte (Al-Wehda), Daniel Chacon (Colorado Rapids), Keysher Fuller (Herediano), Carlos Martinez (San Carlos), Bryan Oviedo (Real Salt Lake) and Ronald Matarrita (Cincinnati).

Midfielders: Yeltsin Tejeda (Herediano), Celso Borges (Alajuelense), Youstin Salas (Saprissa), Roan Wilson (Municipal Grecia), Gerson Torres (Herediano), Douglas Lopez (Herediano), Jewison Bennette (Sunderland), Alvaro Zamora (Saprissa), Anthony Hernandez (Puntarenas), Brandon Aguilera (Nottingham Forest) and Bryan Ruiz (Alajuelense).

Forwards: Joel Campbell (Club Leon), Anthony Contreras (Herediano) and Johan Venegas (Alajuelense).