In a significant move, Inter Miami CF revealed on Wednesday that they have signed Brazilian midfielder Casemiro as a free agent, marking their most high-profile acquisition since Lionel Messi joined the club in 2023.
The official statement from the club confirms that the former Real Madrid and Manchester United player has agreed to a contract lasting through the 2027 MLS Sprint Season, with an option to extend until June 2029. Casemiro will wear the number 5 jersey, pending the approval of his P-1 work visa.
Challenges Behind the Signing
The signing process wasn't straightforward. According to AP News, the Major League Soccer (MLS) has launched an investigation into potential tampering by Inter Miami related to the signing. The league stated that they are currently gathering information and will refrain from further comments until the review is complete.
A significant regulatory hurdle was that LA Galaxy held the discovery rights to Casemiro within the MLS, requiring Inter Miami to negotiate a financial agreement with the Californian team before finalizing the deal. Details of this agreement will remain confidential until the investigation concludes.
Casemiro’s Stellar Career
At 34, Casemiro arrives in Miami following a three-year stint with Manchester United, where he played 160 matches, scored 26 goals, and provided 14 assists, winning both an FA Cup and an English League Cup. Prior to that, during his eight years at Real Madrid, he made 336 appearances and secured 18 titles, including five UEFA Champions League trophies.
On the international stage, Casemiro has earned 91 caps with the Brazilian national team and won the 2019 Copa América. In the recent 2026 World Cup, he was a starter in all five matches for the Seleção, scoring an equalizer against Japan in the Round of 16 and contributing an assist in the following round.
Reactions to the Transfer
Managing owner Jorge Mas expressed his excitement, stating, "Casemiro's arrival reflects the vision and ambition that define Inter Miami. We never settle. We always strive to grow, improve, and raise our standards every season."
Co-owner David Beckham also praised the acquisition: "He's a winner who has achieved so much in football, and after an incredible career at Real Madrid and Manchester United, I'm thrilled he has chosen Miami as his next home."
Casemiro himself shared his motivations: "What drives me most, and I believe this is true for any player, is winning and continuing to grow. The project the club presented to me, along with the effort everyone made to bring me here, means a lot to me."
Building a Championship-Caliber Team
With this addition, the team further strengthens a squad that already boasts Champions League winners like Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. The club, having won the MLS Cup in 2025 with a 3-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps, solidifies its commitment to assembling a roster capable of competing at the highest levels of global football.
Now, with Messi extending his contract until 2028, he will be joined in midfield by the man who was Real Madrid's defensive shield for nearly a decade.
Frequently Asked Questions about Casemiro's Transfer to Inter Miami
Why did Inter Miami sign Casemiro?
Inter Miami signed Casemiro to enhance their team's strength and experience, aiming to maintain high standards and achieve greater success in the MLS.
What challenges did Inter Miami face in signing Casemiro?
Inter Miami faced an investigation for possible tampering and had to negotiate with LA Galaxy due to their discovery rights to Casemiro before finalizing the deal.
What is Casemiro's contract length with Inter Miami?
Casemiro's contract with Inter Miami lasts through the 2027 MLS Sprint Season, with an option to extend until June 2029.