<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> is coming off a stellar 2025 where he led Inter Miami to the first MLS Cup title in franchise history. The Herons want to repeat last season’s success, and to that end, the front office has made official the signing of an Argentine who could fill the void left by Sergio Busquets.



“Inter Miami CF announced today it has signed Argentine midfielder David Ayala from the Portland Timbers. Ayala joins Inter Miami as part of MLS’s U22 Initiative, bolsters the Club’s midfield depth, and will remain under contract through the conclusion of the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) season,” Inter Miami stated in an <a href="https://www.intermiamicf.com/news/inter-miami-cf-signs-midfielder-david-ayala">official release</a>.



Inter Miami view the 23-year-old midfielder as the potential replacement for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sergio-busquets">Busquets</a> in the middle of the pitch, who retired after winning the championship alongside Jordi Alba. 



His playing characteristics are similar to the Spaniard’s, and the statistics reflect it: while Busquets averaged 59.2 completed passes per game, Ayala led the Timbers with 47.2 passes per match at an 88% completion rate.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Un nuevo capítulo comienza. David se une a la familia 💗 <a href="https://t.co/veaXnzvo4l">pic.twitter.com/veaXnzvo4l</a>— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) <a href="https://twitter.com/InterMiamiCF/status/2009673289162207512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Ayala won’t be alone at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a>, as he joins a long list of Argentines on the roster: Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, Gonzalo Lujan, Tomás Aviles, Oscar Ustari, Mateo Silvetti, and Facundo Mura are the compatriots who will welcome the midfielder to Fort Lauderdale.



<h2>Inter Miami active during the transfer window</h2>


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Far from being complacent after winning their first MLS Cup, the front office quickly got to work before the start of the preseason to reinforce the squad. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-gains-a-new-argentine-teammate-as-inter-miami-confirm-their-first-2026-signing">Inter Miami confirmed Facundo Mura as the first signing of 2026</a> to cover the right-back position left vacant by Marcelo Weigandt following his return to Boca Juniors.



The Herons’ goal could also have a new owner, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messis-inter-miami-announce-stellar-signing-who-aspires-to-play-in-2026-world-cup">Inter Miami confirmed a stellar signing who aspires to play in the 2026 World Cup</a> with the USMNT. This is Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, who had an excellent season with Minnesota United that earned him the 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award.



To bolster the defense, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/inter-miami-officially-sign-brazilian-teammate-for-lionel-messi-in-2026">Inter Miami announced the signing of a Brazilian</a> with previous MLS experience. This is Micael, who arrived from Palmeiras after a strong stint with the Houston Dynamo, where he made 80 appearances and scored three goals across all competitions over two seasons and won the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

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miniaturas

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>’s Inter Miami continue to build a roster capable of competing across all 2026 competitions. To that end, the club confirmed its third signing of the current transfer window, bringing in a Brazilian defender to bolster the backline.



“Inter Miami CF announced today it has signed Brazilian center-back Micael dos Santos from Campeonato Brasileiro Série A side SE Palmeiras on loan through the conclusion of the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with an option to make the transfer permanent at the conclusion of the loan,” <a href="https://www.intermiamicf.com/news/inter-miami-cf-signs-brazilian-defender-micael-dos-santos-on-loan">Inter Miami stated in an official statement</a>.



The 25-year-old defender arrives in Florida with plenty of MLS experience following a stint with the Houston Dynamo, where he also featured for their MLS NEXT Pro affiliate. 



During his time in Houston, Micael made 80 appearances and scored three goals across all competitions over two seasons, helping the club lift the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and earning Club Defender of the Year honors.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Já chegou o homem 😎 See him in action at <a href="https://twitter.com/miafreedompark?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@miafreedompark</a> 🏟️ 🎟️ <a href="https://t.co/ZxXGVF4Off">https://t.co/ZxXGVF4Off</a> <a href="https://t.co/akjLvjQcsJ">pic.twitter.com/akjLvjQcsJ</a>— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) <a href="https://twitter.com/InterMiamiCF/status/2009008415037902985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Following his successful MLS run, the defender was transferred to Brazilian giants Palmeiras in what stands as the most expensive transfer in Houston Dynamo history. In Brazil, Micael made 28 appearances and recorded one assist across all competitions.



<h2>Inter Miami’s offseason market so far</h2>


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After capturing the first MLS Cup in franchise history, the front office has wasted no time in reinforcing the defending champions, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-gains-a-new-argentine-teammate-as-inter-miami-confirm-their-first-2026-signing">Inter Miami confirmed Facundo Mura as its first signing of 2026</a>. 



The Argentine defender arrives to provide depth alongside Ian Fray on the right flank following the expiration of Marcelo Weigandt’s loan, who returned to Boca Juniors.



Shortly after Mura’s announcement, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messis-inter-miami-announce-stellar-signing-who-aspires-to-play-in-2026-world-cup">Inter Miami revealed the stellar signing of Dayne St. Clair, who aspires to play in 2026 World Cup</a> following a standout season in goal for Minnesota United. The keeper was named the 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, cementing his status as one of the league’s premier shot-stoppers.



These likely won’t be the only moves for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> this offseason. According to reports from Bolavip Argentina, a verbal agreement is in place for Tadeo Allende to return to the Fort Lauderdale-based club. The forward is coming off a masterclass season in which he netted 24 goals in 54 appearances, being crucial in Inter Miami’s first MLS Cup title.

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Inter Miami officially sign Brazilian teammate for Lionel Messi in 2026 - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>’s Inter Miami are reportedly monitoring several European stars, specifically targeting players who are either nearing the end of their contracts or looking to transition away from the intensity of elite European leagues. This strategy, which previously brought the likes of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets to South Florida, is now being focused on two key figures from Atletico Madrid.



Strengthening the roster is a priority for the Herons as they look to build on their historic 2025 MLS Cup title. In 2026, the club is set to compete in the Concacaf Champions Cup, which offers a path to the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup, as well as the FIFA Intercontinental Cup later this year.



In that regard, two major stars have emerged as potential additions who would certainly live up to the high-profile names already playing alongside Messi. According to Spanish outlets Mundo Deportivo, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> are already in communication and making progress in talks with Antoine Griezmann and Jorge Resurreccion, better known as Koke. This would follow their successful move for Rodrigo De Paul in mid-2025.



In the case of the French forward, his contract with Los Colchoneros does not expire until June 2027; however, reports have indicated for some time that he “dreams” to move his family to the United States.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_556558_griezmann-koke_ca4ac8d0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-556566"></figure><figcaption>Antoine Griezmann and Koke during a training session. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Meanwhile, the veteran midfielder’s situation is more immediate, as his contract with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atletico-madrid">Atletico Madrid</a> expires in just six months. With no current signs of an extension, Koke is viewed as a concrete candidate to join De Paul in the Miami midfield.



<h2>Inter Miami remain active in the market</h2>


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Shortly after <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-gains-a-new-argentine-teammate-as-inter-miami-confirm-their-first-2026-signing">Inter Miami confirmed their first signing of 2026</a>, the front office have continued their work to reinforce the squad and have already secured their second addition ahead of the upcoming season.



On Sunday, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messis-inter-miami-announce-stellar-signing-who-aspires-to-play-in-2026-world-cup">Inter Miami announced goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, who aspires to play at the 2026 World Cup</a> after a standout campaign with Minnesota United, where he was named the 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year. St. Clair joined Inter Miami as a free agent, signing a deal that includes an option through the 2027 season.



However, the club’s pursuit of Giovani Lo Celso appears to have cooled. The Argentine midfielder has reportedly opted to stay with Real Betis in Spain. Remaining in Europe will allow him to maintain the competitive level necessary to stay in contention for the Argentina national team roster just weeks away from their World Cup title defense. Nevertheless, reports suggest that Inter Miami are planning to reopen talks with Lo Celso following the 2026 World Cup.

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Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami reportedly interested in signing two Atletico Madrid players

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Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami reportedly interested in signing two Atletico Madrid players - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> had a season in which they met and exceeded expectations, driven by strong management under Javier Mascherano and the influence of Lionel Messi. While the campaign was widely considered a success, the club made it clear that its ambitions extended beyond just one year. With an eye on remaining title contenders, Inter Miami moved quickly in the offseason to strengthen key areas of the roster ahead of the next MLS season.



<a href="https://www.intermiamicf.com/news/inter-miami-cf-signs-2025-mls-goalkeeper-of-the-year-dayne-st-clair">Inter Miami announced through their official social media channels</a> the signing of Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair as a reinforcement for the upcoming MLS campaign. In their statement, the club highlighted the arrival of one of the most consistent goalkeepers from the previous season, signaling a clear intention to reinforce the squad with proven talent.



“I’m very excited to join the club and represent them both on and off the field. I can’t wait to meet everyone and start preparing to win trophies. See you soon,” the goalkeeper said in a video message shared by the club on X, formerly known as Twitter.



St. Clair, 28, arrived from Minnesota United after making 159 appearances for the club since being selected in the 2019 SuperDraft. He also recorded 18 appearances with Canada, establishing himself as one of the most reliable figures in Canadian <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a> over recent seasons.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="547957" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_556460_dayne-st-clair_ef0d6241.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Dayne St. Clair during a Minnesota United game." class="wp-image-547957"></figure><figcaption>Dayne St. Clair during a Minnesota United game.</figcaption></figure>
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<h2>St. Clair leaving his mark in the MLS</h2>



St. Clair was named the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year in 2025 after posting a 77.93 save percentage, registering 113 saves, and recording 10 clean sheets across 30 regular-season matches. He finished ahead of Matt Freese of New York City FC and Yohei Takaoka of the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final voting.


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<h2>Competition following the new signing</h2>



The arrival of St. Clair came after the departure of Drake Callender. Under Javier Mascherano, the primary option in goal had been Oscar Ustari, while the club also confirmed that Rocco Rios Novo would remain as an alternative heading into the new season.



St. Clair is a leading candidate to start in goal for Canada at the upcoming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a>, under head coach Jesse Marsch. After serving as a backup during the 2022 tournament in Qatar, he entered the next cycle competing directly with Maxime Crepeau for the top role.



According to the club, the move was finalized after St. Clair was unable to reach an extension agreement with Minnesota, allowing Inter Miami to complete the signing and further solidify their roster. The club also secured the continuity of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> through 2028, retained Luis Suarez, exercised the purchase option on Rodrigo de Paul, and added fullbacks Sergio Reguilon and Facundo Mura, a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-gains-a-new-argentine-teammate-as-inter-miami-confirm-their-first-2026-signing" rel="sponsored nofollow">new Argentine teammate for Messi at Inter Miami</a> as part of a busy and ambitious offseason.

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Lionel Messi's Inter Miami announce stellar signing who aspires to play in 2026 World Cup - Bolavip US

Following their historic MLS Cup victory, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>’s Inter Miami are wasting no time in the transfer market as they prepare for the 2026 season. With the goal of defending their title, the Florida franchise has officially confirmed its first signing and is moving quickly to secure a second name to bolster the defense.



The first confirmed reinforcement is Facundo Mura. The 26-year-old right-back was officially announced by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> after becoming a free agent from Racing Club. The defender has signed a contract through June 2029, marking his first professional experience outside of Argentina.



“I am very happy to join the club, with a great desire to work and the hope of continuing to win titles,” Mura expressed in a presentation video. His arrival is intended to fill the vacancy left by Marcelo Weigandt, who returned to Boca Juniors after two seasons with the club.



With four titles won at Racing Club and a record of 12 goals and 15 assists in 148 matches across all competitions, all signs indicate that Mura has the credentials to take over the starting role on the right flank. This opportunity was likely a key factor in his decision to accept Inter Miami’s offer over other suitors, such as Argentina’s River Plate.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Facundo Mura ya está en Miami 👋 <a href="https://t.co/MglqXYKhUO">pic.twitter.com/MglqXYKhUO</a>— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) <a href="https://twitter.com/InterMiamiCF/status/2007554216987070604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>Inter Miami eye South American market for second signing</h2>



The news from Fort Lauderdale doesn’t stop with Mura. The Herons are reportedly close to securing their second reinforcement of the year: Micael, a 25-year-old center-back currently with Palmeiras.


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Negotiations with the Brazilian club are in advanced stages and are trending toward a loan with an option to buy. Palmeiras’ objective is to recoup the nearly $6 million investment they made when they purchased him from Houston Dynamo, another MLS side.



Micael, who arrived in Brazil at the beginning of last year, lost ground in coach Abel Ferreira’s rotation during the final semester of 2025 and is reportedly eager to return to the MLS to relaunch his career. If the final details are finalized, he will skip Palmeiras’ preseason and fly directly to Miami to join the squad’s growing South American contingent.

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After winning the MLS Cup title for the first time in their history, Inter Miami are working to continue reinforcing the team to keep giving <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> chances to continue writing history with the franchise. In that sense, a USMNT attacking midfielder confirmed that the Herons showed interest in him during the transfer market.



Reports indicated that<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messis-inter-miami-reportedly-interested-in-signing-usmnt-international-midfielder"> Inter Miami had shown interest in Matko Miljevic</a>, but it was the former CF Montreal and USMNT midfielder himself who recently confirmed the Florida club’s interest in an interview with ESPN.



“Right on the 31st of December or January 1st, a person called me and told me that the possibility was there, that they wanted me, but I’m going to be very careful because I don’t think there is a formal offer, but rather inquiries. They told me that in these days they were going to send an offer to the club, but I won’t speak there, although the interest reached me,” Miljevic noted.



However, the competition <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> face for the attacking midfielder is difficult, as Racing Club are one of the main teams looking to sign Miljevic in this transfer window. Furthermore, although Miljevic mentioned being happy at Huracan, he recognized that it would be an important step in his career to play for a club like Racing Club.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260103_BUS_555697_matko-miljevic-usa_9636a776.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-555704"></figure></figure>



“Today I owe myself to Huracan, because I still have a contract there and it was a very nice year here, where they treated me wonderfully, but a player always yearns to take positive steps forward. And I believe that today the option of Racing, which everyone knows about, would be a beautiful opportunity,” the 24-year-old player added.



<h2>Miljevic dreams of 2026 World Cup opportunity with USMNT</h2>


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The former CF Montreal midfielder made his international debut in early January 2025, after Mauricio Pochettino included him in the squad for the year’s opening friendlies. In a standout debut, Miljevic recorded both a goal and an assist in a 3-1 victory over Venezuela.



He followed that performance by logging minutes in a second friendly against Costa Rica. However, since those initial appearances, he has not returned to the national team setup, missing friendlies and the CONCACAF Gold Cup.



Despite this, the player stated that he sees himself with a chance to compete in the 2026 World Cup with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/usmnt">USMNT</a>. “I see myself with a chance, and I really want to play in the World Cup. It’s the first thing any kid thinks about—playing in a World Cup—and to have the possibility of doing it with an Argentine coach in the United States, Mauricio Pochettino, especially after he has called you up and told you he’s keeping you in mind… it’s tempting,” Miljevic explained.



Additionally, he indicated that he views the work Pochettino is doing with the national team very positively, noting that it also represents an improvement for MLS. “I see the National Team doing very well. There is a line of young players who have been doing very good and consolidated work for years, and now the arrival of Mauricio, a year ago, I think is good for the National Team, for U.S. soccer, and for MLS,” he concluded.

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Lionel Messi could get a new teammate as a USMNT international confirms Inter Miami’s interest - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> was the undisputed star of the 2025 season for Inter Miami, earning both the regular season MVP and the MLS Cup Final MVP after leading the team to its first-ever league title. Alongside him, Tadeo Allende emerged as one of the team’s most vital contributors, though he was forced to depart the franchise to return to Celta Vigo following the expiration of his loan.



Following the championship win, the Herons expressed a formal interest in negotiating a permanent transfer for the Argentine forward. It appears they have now received an encouraging update as Celta Vigo announced that Allende will take extra days of leave before joining the team’s preseason.



“We have spoken with him so that he has a few more days of vacation to also try to find out what we are going to do, what the best solution is for all parties,” said Claudio Giraldez, Celta’s head coach, during a press conference ahead of their match against Valencia. “Whether he stays or not, I am in communication with him. He is a spectacular kid and has great talent”.



The Spanish manager described Allende’s performance in the United States as “brilliant,” though he was quick to point out the “physical conditions” that differentiate the two leagues.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260103_BUS_555649_tadeo-allende_3431ac4f.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-555662"></figure><figcaption>Tadeo Allende celebrates a goal against Vancouver Whitecaps. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



“Tadeo has had a brilliant loan in soccer terms. When we spoke with him, we demanded that he have continuity to find his rhythm,” Giraldez explained. “Obviously, it is not the league closest to ours in terms of the physical factors we would have liked, but he has played many minutes and the number of goals he scored is staggering”.



<h2>Could Inter Miami sign Allende?</h2>


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The news that Javier Mascherano and the front office received regarding Allende is somewhat positive; by allowing the player to skip the preseason, it suggests that he may be open for negotiation and that the club is willing to listen to offers for him.



However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> are not the only ones who want to keep Allende. The former Godoy Cruz player was a key figure in the Herons’ attack, where he set a new record as the all-time leading scorer in an MLS postseason with 9 goals, and he quickly caught the attention of many clubs.



In Argentina, River Plate was among those interested in adding the forward for the upcoming season. However, they have already begun their preseason, although reports indicate they have not closed the door on a potential negotiation.



Inter Miami also face direct competition, as there is a team within MLS that wants to sign the Argentine. According to a report by ESPN, Austin FC have initiated contact with Celta Vigo to acquire the striker. The coming days will be crucial for Allende and his camp to decide what the next move in his career will be, as he has a wide range of possibilities to choose from.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> capped off an incredible 2025 by leading Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup title, and the club’s front office is already working to maintain that momentum for the 2026 season. 



With the departures of icons Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba to retirement, as well as the end of loans for players like Tadeo Allende and Baltasar Rodriguez, the Herons are actively scouting reinforcements.



While they have already <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-inter-miami-welcome-former-real-madrid-player-to-replace-jordi-alba">secured Sergio Reguilon as a replacement for Alba</a>, reports have emerged that Inter Miami are now targeting USMNT-eligible midfielder Matko Miljevic.



According to Argentine transfer expert Cesar Luis Merlo, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> have initiated preliminary talks with Argentine club Huracan regarding the 24-year-old playmaker. While no formal offer has been submitted yet, Miljevic is reportedly a top candidate to bolster a midfield currently undergoing a significant transition.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260102_BUS_554929_miljevic_2827299e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-554969"></figure><figcaption>Matko Miljevic celebrates a teammate goal. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Inter Miami are not the only ones interested in Miljevic</h2>



The Herons will face some competition for Miljevic as the Copa Sudamericana champions, Racing Club, are also reportedly interested in securing the midfielder, though Huracan has already rejected their initial offer for the player. 


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Furthermore, Brazil’s Cruzeiro has emerged as a potential suitor for the American midfielder and would be willing to purchase 80% of Miljevic’s rights, who reportedly views a move to the Brasileirao favorably.



<h2>Miljevic’s international tenure</h2>



Following several strong seasons in Argentine soccer with Newell’s Old Boys and Huracan, Miljevic earned a call-up to the USMNT under Mauricio Pochettino. The former CF Montreal midfielder made his international debut in early January 2025, when Pochettino included him in the squad for the year’s opening friendlies. 



In a standout debut, Miljevic recorded both a goal and an assist in a 3-1 victory over Venezuela. He followed that performance by logging minutes in a second friendly against Costa Rica.



However, since those initial appearances, he has not returned to the national team setup, missing both subsequent friendlies and the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Consequently, the player is seeking a move to a more competitive club environment to regain Pochettino’s attention and secure a spot in the squad for the 2026 World Cup.

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Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami reportedly interested in signing USMNT international midfielder - Bolavip US

Inter Miami had a spectacular season, even finishing as MLS champions, with a roster that finally established a clear identity and chemistry. Led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, who was the most influential and decisive player throughout the campaign, the Herons maximized their potential and turned expectations into silverware. Still, beyond the star power, several key contributors played vital roles in that title run, and one of them is now set to return.



The Herons reportedly reached an agreement to bring back an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a> Cup champion on a permanent deal. As Javier Mascherano’s tenure began on the sidelines, Inter Miami entered 2025 focused on short-term roster stability, relying on one-year contracts and loan deals. One of those moves involved goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo, who initially returned to Argentine side Lanus after the season before negotiations reopened.



According to Argentine transfer expert German Garcia Grova, Inter Miami reached an agreement with Lanus to sign Rios Novo on a permanent basis. The club initially declined the purchase option included in his loan, but renewed talks shifted the outlook, and the 23-year-old goalkeeper is now close to finalizing his return to Fort Lauderdale.



The transfer fee has not been disclosed, but the deal reportedly includes Inter Miami acquiring 70 percent of the player’s sporting rights, with Lanus retaining the remaining 30 percent. Rios Novo is expected to sign a three-year contract that would keep him with the club through the end of the 2028 season.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="553550" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251230_BUS_553549_rios-novo_2f4d97b9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Rocco Rios Novo #34 of Inter Miami." class="wp-image-553550"></figure><figcaption>Rocco Rios Novo #34 of Inter Miami.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Rios Novo’s performance with Inter Miami</h2>



During his previous stint, Rios Novo made 20 appearances for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a>, conceding 19 goals while recording five clean sheets. He logged 1,688 minutes on the field and played a role in the club’s championship run, which concluded with a 3–1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final.


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<h2>Potential competition in goal</h2>



While Rios Novo was away from Miami, and his return seemed unlikely at the time, Inter Miami explored alternative options at goalkeeper. That search may still remain active, as competition at the position is far from settled heading into the new season.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-reportedly-getting-stellar-addition-as-inter-miami-near-signing-of-mls-sensation">Inter Miami are reportedly close to finalizing the signing of Dayne St. Clair</a>, a move that would significantly reshape the goalkeeping landscape. The club continue to look for reinforcements as they aim to sustain domestic success and remain competitive on multiple fronts.



According to a report from the New York Times, the 28-year-old goalkeeper is set to arrive on a free transfer after his contract expired with Minnesota United. His tenure there ended after 159 appearances, during which he consistently ranked among the league’s most reliable performers at his position, leaving the situation in Miami still very much open.

Inter Miami reportedly reach agreement to re-sign goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo on permanent deal

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> have not built a strong track record in the MLS SuperDraft, but late in 2023, the club identified an unexpected gem. The Herons signed Italian midfielder Yannick Bright, a player coming directly from Serie D, who would go on to play a meaningful role during the season in which Inter Miami captured the MLS Cup alongside Lionel Messi.



The 24-year-old Milan native completed one of the most remarkable transitions in recent MLS memory, moving from Arconatese to lifting silverware in the United States. What began with a direct message on Instagram in 2020 ended five years later with Bright celebrating championships while sharing a locker room with Messi, whom he calls “Leo.”



“Winning with him is something incredible. If someone had told me this a few years ago, I wouldn’t have believed it,” Bright said with a laugh in comments published by La Gazzetta dello Sport.



The adjustment was immediate and overwhelming. From semi-professional soccer in Italy to a locker room filled with global stars, Bright admitted the leap required a complete mental reset. “I asked myself what I was doing there, but I understood that I had no choice other than to rise to the level,” he said. His first encounter with Messi left a lasting impression. “The first time I saw him, I almost passed out. He’s humble, with a special aura. Calm off the field, an animal on it.”



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="552564" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251228_BUS_552563_yannick-bright_016282df.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Yannick Bright #42 of Inter Miami" class="wp-image-552564"></figure><figcaption>Yannick Bright #42 of Inter Miami</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Lessons learned from Busquets and Alba</h2>



Miami also became a classroom for Bright, who absorbed daily lessons from veterans such as Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba. “Playing like Busquets is almost impossible. I remember Alba correcting a pass that was perfect, just because it didn’t arrive with the exact speed he wanted,” Bright recalled.


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<h2>Bright’s personal bond with Messi</h2>



Despite not being part of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Messi</a>’s closest inner circle in Miami, Bright described a genuine and frequent connection with the Argentine star. “We talk a lot about soccer. He talks to me about his family and asks about mine,” the midfielder said.



“He’s been a huge help over these two years, both on and off the field,” Bright added. “He told me he likes Italy and the matches he played at San Siro. When he beat AC Milan with Barcelona in 2011, I was also in the stands, thanks to my brother, who was playing in the youth system.”



Bright’s journey did not end with a championship medal. After leaving European <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a> as a fourth-division player, he demonstrated the tools to return at a much higher level if he chooses. That belief was reinforced not only by Messi but also by Jordi Alba, who recently retired after sharing the same locker room.

Inter Miami midfielder Yannick Bright describes playing alongside Lionel Messi during MLS Cup season

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Fresh off capturing their first-ever MLS Cup title, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>‘s Inter Miami are already shifting their focus to an even more ambitious target: winning the Concacaf Champions Cup to secure a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup. To reach that level, the club and manager Javier Mascherano are looking to once again dip into the transfer market for elite talent.



According to reports out of Spain, the Herons have set their sights on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/giovani-lo-celso">Giovani Lo Celso</a>. Even more encouraging for the Miami faithful? Real Betis are reportedly prepared to let the Argentine playmaker leave for a fee in the neighborhood of €5 million. 



Local reports suggest that the relationship between the player and the club has cooled. Journalist Gonzalo de la Haza noted on Sevillanía TV that manager Manuel Pellegrini may be looking to move on from the Argentine midfielder.



“He has received an offer. He’s thinking about it and Betis will let him leave because I think Pellegrini has partly grown tired of Lo Celso,” de la Haza explained. “Pellegrini isn’t willing to give him minutes just because there’s a World Cup on the horizon”.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251226_BUS_551892_messi-argentina-teammates_77a63253.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-551909"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi speaks with Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul, Nicolas Otamendi and Giovani Lo Celso. (Getty)</figcaption></figure>



The initial connection between Lo Celso and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> reportedly sparked back in October, when the midfielder joined several Argentina teammates to watch Lionel Messi take on Atlanta United while the national team was on tour in the U.S. Since then, negotiations have gained momentum, and a formal offer meeting Betis’ expectations is expected soon.



<h2>Searching for consistency</h2>


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Lo Celso’s diminished role in Seville has become impossible to ignore. The 29-year-old has failed to crack the starting XI in any of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-betis">Betis</a>‘ last five La Liga matches. 



Since late November, he has seen a mere handful of minutes as a substitute against teams like Rayo Vallecano and Getafe, while remaining an unused sub in a marquee matchup against Barcelona.



<h2>The road to the 2026 World Cup runs through Miami</h2>



For Lo Celso, a move to South Florida represents a guaranteed starting role and a chance to remain a fixture in Lionel Scaloni’s plans for the 2026 World Cup. As Messi has previously alluded to, the MLS calendar offers a strategic advantage for aging stars and national team staples, allowing players to arrive at major summer tournaments with less physical wear and tear compared to those grinding through the grueling European season.

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Real Betis reportedly make a decision on Lo Celso joining Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami - Bolavip US

Defending last season’s success in MLS and reclaiming the championship will be Inter Miami’s primary goal. Far from resting on its laurels, the club continues to strengthen its roster to support <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> in the best possible way for the season ahead.



Facundo Mura, who has been playing for Racing Club in Argentina, is reportedly set to join the Herons ahead of the upcoming season. According to the latest report from Cesar Luis Merlo on his X account, the defender turned down interest from River Plate in order to team up with Messi.



The Argentine transfer market expert also revealed that Mura will sign a contract with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> through June 2029. This way, Javier Mascherano will add experience to a defense that may have been one of the team’s weakest points.



Mura began his professional soccer career at Estudiantes de La Plata, had a brief stint with Colon, and most recently played for Racing Club. There, he celebrated winning the 2024 Copa Sudamericana. With his contract running out, the defender is joining Inter Miami as a free agent.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251223_BUS_550330_facundo-mura_031d9516.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Facundo Mura" class="wp-image-550349"></figure><figcaption>Facundo Mura of Racing Club.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Inter Miami look to add another Argentine</h2>



Inter Miami are also reportedly showing strong interest in acquiring Giovani Lo Celso to further bolster their star-studded midfield. The MLS side views the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/inter-miami-reportedly-want-to-pair-lionel-messi-and-rodrigo-de-paul-with-another-argentina-international">Argentine international as an ideal creative partner for Messi and Rodrigo De Paul</a>, aiming to leverage their existing chemistry from the national team.


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While securing a deal for the Real Betis midfielder would require a significant move, Inter Miami appear determined to bring his vision and tactical versatility to Florida as they continue to build a championship-caliber roster around their core of veteran stars.

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Argentine defender turns down South American giants to join Lionel Messi at Inter Miami — Report - Bolavip US

Since the arrival of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, Inter Miami have become a squad with strong Argentine presence, with players such as Rodrigo De Paul already on the roster. Now, Inter are looking to add another high-profile name to that list as they continue to build a competitive project around their core stars.



The Herons are showing strong interest in signing Giovani Lo Celso ahead of the next transfer window. According to journalist Gaston Edul, Inter Miami are monitoring the situation closely and are willing to submit a formal offer. At this stage, however, negotiations have not progressed and no proposal has reached Real Betis.



The Rosario-born midfielder started the current season as a regular contributor, although he has lost prominence in recent weeks. He has already appeared in 20 matches, scoring two goals and providing two assists, remaining a useful option within the Betis midfield rotation under Manuel Pellegrini.



<h2>Significant Argentine presence at Inter Miami</h2>



If the move goes through, Lo Celso would become the eighth Argentine on Inter Miami’s roster, joining Messi, Tadeo Allende, Mateo Silvetti, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rodrigo-de-paul">Rodrigo De Paul</a>, Gonzalo Lujan, Tomas Aviles, and Oscar Ustari. The Argentine core continues to shape the identity of the squad as the club prepares for the upcoming season.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="549954" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251222_BUS_549925_lo-celso_e02afcea.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Giovani Lo Celso of Real Betis." class="wp-image-549954"></figure><figcaption>Giovani Lo Celso of Real Betis.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



It is also worth noting that the loan deals of Rocco Rios Novo, Baltasar Rodriguez, and Marcelo Weigandt have already ended. In addition, the Herons are exploring the possibility of adding Facundo Mura, who is also drawing interest from River Plate.


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<h2>Lo Celso’s need for playing time</h2>



While talks remain quiet, a path forward could open quickly due to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/giovani-lo-celso">Lo Celso</a>’s situation at Sevilla. At 29, after a strong 2024, his 2025 campaign is marked by inconsistency and muscular injuries that limit his continuity. He logged just 83 minutes across the last four matches, a scenario that could ease a potential exit.



Beyond sporting reasons, Betis are also looking to free up salary space to pursue a new striker, making Lo Celso’s sale a viable financial solution. For the midfielder, a move to the United States offers a clear incentive, as it would allow him to reunite daily with Messi and De Paul while regaining the competitive rhythm needed to stay on the radar of Lionel Scaloni ahead of the 2026 World Cup.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> are viewed as a destination that could provide immediate starts. The club sees Lo Celso as a potential replacement for Tadeo Allende, who is set to return to Celta de Vigo after his loan spell, and as part of a roster that continues to add depth. The Herons have already completed the signing of Sergio Reguilon and are close to securing Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, reinforcing a squad that shows no signs of slowing down.

Inter Miami reportedly want to pair Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul with another Argentina international

Inter Miami reportedly want to pair Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul with another Argentina international - Bolavip US

Inter Miami are entering a pivotal transition period after losing two of their biggest stars at the end of the season, one of them being legendary midfielder <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sergio-busquets">Sergio Busquets</a>, who retires from professional soccer. With Lionel Messi still on the roster, the Herons are focused on maximizing their competitive window and are actively searching for a replacement in Liga MX to stabilize the midfield and maintain their title ambitions.



One of the leading targets is Nicolas Fonseca from Club Leon in Mexico. According to reports from TyC Sports, citing Super Deportivo, Inter Miami have already submitted a formal offer, with negotiations ongoing between both clubs as they seek to reach an agreement in the coming weeks.



Fonseca is a 27-year-old Uruguayan defensive midfielder who began his professional career with Novara FC in Italy. He later played for Montevideo Wanderers and River Plate in Uruguay, before making the move to River Plate in Argentina in 2024. After a brief stint there, Club Leon acquired him for a reported fee of $2 million.



Despite showing flashes of quality, Fonseca’s time with La Fiera has been marked by inconsistency, influenced in part by an unstable institutional environment as the club looks ahead to structural changes toward 2026. That context has also fueled speculation about a potential move abroad.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="549649" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251222_BUS_549648_nicolas-fonseca_64e8a9a6.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Nicolas Fonseca of Leon." class="wp-image-549649"></figure><figcaption>Nicolas Fonseca of Leon.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Fonseca’s numbers</h2>



During the current 2025–26 season, Fonseca has appeared in 15 matches for Club Leon in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/liga-mx">Liga MX Apertura</a>. He started 13 of those games and came off the bench twice, without registering goals or assists, while primarily serving as a holding midfielder tasked with defensive balance.


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At the international level, Fonseca has earned six caps with Uruguay under head coach Marcelo Bielsa, appearing in both World Cup qualifiers and friendlies. Those appearances place him on the radar for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, although his place in the final squad remains far from secure.



<h2>Inter Miami face competition</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> must move decisively if they want to secure Fonseca’s signature, as interest from Europe is also emerging. According to Infobae, Real Oviedo of Spain have been mentioned as a potential destination, aided by the fact that the club belongs to the same ownership group as Club Leon, which could simplify negotiations.



For Fonseca, a move to Europe would offer greater exposure ahead of the 2026 World Cup, while a transfer to Inter Miami would provide the opportunity to play alongside <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Messi</a> and assume a central role in an ambitious MLS project. The coming weeks are expected to be decisive as all parties weigh their options.

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Lionel Messi's Inter Miami reportedly working to sign Liga MX player as Sergio Busquets' replacement - Bolavip US

The roster build for Inter Miami ahead of the 2026 Major League Soccer season is beginning to take shape. After outlining several key decisions for the upcoming year, the Fort Lauderdale club is already moving forward with the next phase of its rebuild, focused on assembling a squad capable of competing for every major trophy alongside <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>.



Following the contract renewal of Luis Suarez and the recently confirmed signing of Sergio Reguilon, Inter Miami are now turning their attention to internal roster decisions. Club executives are prioritizing continuity, especially among players who were already part of the squad last season.



One of those players is Baltasar Rodriguez. According to reports from DIRECTV Sports, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> are actively working to retain the Argentine midfielder and are negotiating with Racing Club over a permanent transfer valued at approximately $5 million. The move comes after the club declined to trigger the initial purchase option due to Rodriguez’s limited playing time last season.



If Rodriguez remains in Fort Lauderdale, his challenge will increase significantly. Under head coach Javier Mascherano, the midfielder must earn a consistent role in the starting lineup, a task that will require both improved performances and greater tactical adaptability within a competitive squad.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="549596" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251222_BUS_549518_baltasar_117a7138.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Baltasar Rodríguez #11 of Inter Miami" class="wp-image-549596"></figure><figcaption>Baltasar Rodríguez #11 of Inter Miami </figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Poor numbers for Baltasar in Miami</h2>



That responsibility begins with increased minutes. During the most recent season, Rodriguez logged 1,176 minutes across 25 appearances, producing three goals and three assists, all of them in MLS play. While the numbers are modest, the club believes his profile still fits its long term vision if his involvement grows.


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<h2>Another familiar name from Messi’s past could arrive</h2>



Beyond Rodriguez and the strong Argentine presence already in the locker room, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/report-inter-miami-are-very-close-to-signing-a-former-lionel-messi-teammate-from-argentina">Inter Miami are also monitoring a potential defensive reinforcement with a direct connection to Messi</a>. According to TNT Sports, the team led by Mascherano is targeting an experienced center back for 2026, with Marcos Rojo emerging as a priority candidate.



Although Rojo’s contract with Racing Club runs through June 2026, the defender has an option to depart at the end of the current year. Now 35, Rojo joined Racing in mid 2025 after his stint with Boca Juniors, and Inter Miami are evaluating a possible move as part of their long-term defensive planning, with familiarity and leadership weighing heavily in the decision process.

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Inter Miami reportedly preparing $5 million move to bring back key Argentine teammate for Lionel Messi - Bolavip US

Inter Miami preparing $5M move to bring back key Argentine teammate for Messi

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