Inter Miami have won silverware in their last three seasons, and the taste of success has become an addiction for the players and the owners. They are keen to rebuild the squad and are pulling out all the stops in the transfer window.
Inter Miami Suffer Setback in Midfielder Chase
The Lionel Messi-led side started the window by signing Rodrigo De Paul on a permanent transfer after he impressed on loan in the second half of last season. Luis Suarez has also renewed for the season, though his contribution was questioned by many fans in 2025.
The Herons replaced Jordi Alba, who announced his retirement along with Sergio Busquets in 2025, with Sergio Reguilón. The Spaniard has joined on a free transfer and brings rich experience from playing for some of Europe’s best clubs.
Right-back Facundo Mura joins on a free transfer, as does the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, Dayne St. Clair. Brazilian defender Micael dos Santos Silva has been loaned in from Palmeiras, while David Ayala has been traded from the Portland Timbers.
It seemed like all the players Miami wanted were ready to jump at the chance to move to Florida. But now, they have been hit with a significant rejection.
Argentina midfielder Giovani Lo Celso is reportedly not interested in making the switch to the MLS side ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Argentine journalist Juan Manuel Viera, on DSports Radio, said that the Real Betis star wants to remain at the Spanish club, where he is slowly finding form.
The Argentine is working to get into the national team squad and does not want to take the risk of moving to a new side, and continue in the Spanish top flight. The decision comes after national team manager Lionel Scaloni said he was not looking at teams or leagues, but rather focusing on players’ performances as he picks the squad.
Lo Celso spoke to BolaVIP earlier this season, when he was asked whether Messi would play at the 2026 World Cup. The 2022 World Cup winner was quick to give a vague answer and said:
“He looks very happy. Every time he goes to the national team, he enjoys it, and at his club too, beyond this injury now. I hope he continues to be there, continues to contribute, because he gives a lot to the country through the national team.”
Lo Celso added, “It’s so personal… You have all the desire for him to be there, because you think of him more as a fan and not just as a teammate. But they are very personal decisions, and he will define what he thinks is most convenient. One thing I’m sure of: everyone wants Leo to play in the World Cup, and I want to believe that it’s going to be like that.”
Messi has not yet made a decision, but has confirmed he will be at the stadium for all matches.
