Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, engaged actively in transfer activities last month as they prepared to defend their Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup title. Despite investing around $41 million and securing several players, the squad remains somewhat incomplete ahead of the 2026 MLS season, raising questions about potential missed opportunities to further strengthen the team.
Additional Player Targets for Inter Miami’s Championship Defense
During the recent winter transfer window, Inter Miami focused on solidifying their roster by turning Rodrigo De Paul and Tadeo Allende’s loan deals into permanent contracts and signing striker German Berterame. Under coach Javier Mascherano, the team that claimed victory against Vancouver Whitecaps in the 2025 MLS Cup final also bolstered their midfield and defense by adding David Ayala for a transfer fee and bringing in Sergio Reguilon on a free transfer. Despite these additions, there were other notable players who could have enhanced the team’s chances further.
The Case for Adding Sergio Ramos to Strengthen Defense
Following his release from Liga MX club Monterrey, veteran defender Sergio Ramos has been searching for a new club. At 39 years old, Ramos remains a competent center-back, having scored eight goals in 34 appearances during the 2025 season with Monterrey. Although Inter Miami brought in Micael from Palmeiras on loan, their central defense depth is still a concern. Signing Ramos could have introduced a seasoned leader to the backline with proven chemistry within the squad, especially considering his past experience playing alongside Inter Miami captain Gonzalo Higuain at Paris Saint-Germain between 2021 and 2023.
Why Casemiro Would Have Been an Ideal Midfield Addition
Just before the transfer window closed, Casemiro, the Brazilian midfielder currently with Manchester United, announced plans to leave his club in the summer. His departure creates an opportunity for teams like Inter Miami, who could use his leadership and experience to fill the gap left by retired Sergio Busquets. Casemiro’s presence would have been valuable in mentoring new signing David Ayala, who recently moved from Portland Timbers, and could have allowed Rodrigo De Paul to operate more aggressively in attack. The 33-year-old’s consistent performances—starting 22 of 23 Premier League games this season and scoring five goals—underscore his potential value to the MLS side.
Denis Bouanga as a Versatile Offensive Option
Before completing the acquisition of Berterame from Monterrey, Inter Miami was linked to Denis Bouanga, a forward currently with Los Angeles FC. The 31-year-old Gabonese international offers flexibility in attack with his speed and direct style of play, which could have alleviated some creative responsibilities off Messi. Bouanga’s proven MLS credentials include 24 goals and seven assists in 31 regular-season games in 2025, as well as two goals and two assists during the playoffs before LAFC’s exit in the quarter-finals. His ability to cover ground would have provided additional attacking options for the Herons in their title defense.
Each of these players—Ramos, Casemiro, and Bouanga—represents a missed opportunity for Inter Miami to further reinforce key areas of their squad. While the team remains competitive with their current signings, including De Paul, Ayala, Berterame, and Reguilon, addressing gaps in central defense and midfield creativity could be crucial as they prepare for the challenges of the 2026 MLS season.
Looking ahead, the club’s transfer choices and potential future signings will be closely watched, as the balance between maintaining a title-winning squad and adding fresh talent remains delicate. Strengthening leadership in defense, experience in midfield, and versatility in attack may decide whether Inter Miami can repeat their MLS Cup triumph or face a tougher path in the coming season.
