Inter Miami are close to completing a blockbuster deal to bring Casemiro to Major League Soccer following his departure from Manchester United.
The Brazilian midfielder has reportedly chosen South Florida as his preferred destination, paving the way for a spectacular reunion with Lionel Messi and several other major stars in American soccer.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star appears to have made a decision about his future. After leaving Old Trafford this summer, Casemiro has identified Inter Miami as his next club.
According to The Athletic, several options were on the table, but the 34-year-old is determined to move to the “Vice City.” The transfer would unite the Brazilian with a star-studded squad that already includes Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and German Berterame.
Despite interest from various clubs around the world, Inter Miami’s ambitious MLS project appears to have convinced the five-time Champions League winner, who is coming off a positive final season in the Premier League.
LA Galaxy obstacle due to “discovery rights”
However, the deal is not entirely straightforward. LA Galaxy currently hold the so-called “discovery rights” for Casemiro. Under MLS rules, this gives the Los Angeles club the first right to negotiate with the player.
Galaxy had hoped to convince the midfielder to move to California and reportedly held several talks with his representatives, while also presenting more than one contract offer.
This mechanism was created to prevent direct competition between MLS clubs for the same international target, which could significantly increase transfer costs. But Casemiro’s desire to join Inter Miami has created a complicated situation.
If the transfer is finalized, Miami will most likely have to compensate LA Galaxy, similar to the case when the California club paid Charlotte FC $400,000 to secure the transfer rights for Marco Reus two seasons ago.
Miami’s financial plan
Another obstacle for Inter Miami is the lack of an available “Designated Player” spot. With Messi and other stars already occupying those positions, Casemiro’s initial salary would need to remain below the $2 million limit for the current season.
To solve this issue, Miami are expected to use the same strategy they followed in 2023 with Jordi Alba, utilizing “Targeted Allocation Money” funds before eventually moving the player into Designated Player status later on.
The club could structure the agreement with a non-guaranteed option that would activate a salary increase once roster space becomes available. This kind of financial creativity has become part of Inter Miami’s operating model as the club looks to strengthen the squad after a turbulent season and the earlier departure of coach Javier Mascherano.
A trophy-filled career
Casemiro would arrive in North America with one of the most decorated résumés in modern football. During his legendary spell at Real Madrid, he won the Champions League five times and claimed three La Liga titles.
Even at Manchester United, the Brazilian proved he can still perform at the highest level. Last season, he scored nine goals in 33 starts, helping the team finish third and return to the Champions League.
Before putting on Inter Miami’s pink jersey, Casemiro still has one more mission with Brazil national football team. He has been included in the final squad selected by Carlo Ancelotti for this summer’s World Cup, where he will aim to add to his 84 appearances for the Seleção.
After completing his international duties with Brazil, the midfielder is expected to join Inter Miami, who currently sit on 28 points and are aiming to defend their MLS Cup title under interim coach Guillermo Hoyos.
