Inter Miami Finalizes $15M Deal for Germán Berterame
Inter Miami is continuing its ambitious offseason, finalizing a deal to acquire Mexican international forward Germán Berterame from CF Monterrey for a reported $15 million, according to sources briefed on the deal by The Athletic. This move comes as the club navigates the transition from the 'Lionel Messi 1.0' era to what is being dubbed 'Messi 2.0'.
Messis Miami: Rebuilding with New DP Slots
The arrival of Berterame is a significant addition for Inter Miami, especially after the departures of midfielders Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who retired, freeing up two Designated Player (DP) slots. The club has been active in the transfer market, seeking to build upon the success achieved during Messi's initial tenure, which saw the club capture the Leagues Cup in 2023.
With the DP slots now available, Miami has been exploring various options to strengthen its roster. The club's pursuit of top talent is evident in their audacious $13 million bid for LAFC star Denis Bouanga, which was reportedly rejected out of hand by LAFC.
Bouanga Stays Put at LAFC
Denis Bouanga, a prolific scorer in MLS, is not looking to leave LAFC. The Gabon international winger has expressed his desire to stay at LAFC and is reportedly seeking a new contract with the club. Bouanga, who joined LAFC in the summer of 2022, has been a key figure for the club, scoring at least 20 goals in each of the last three seasons.
The 31-year-old was instrumental in LAFC's success, scoring the goal that clinched the Supporters' Shield in 2022 and playing every minute in the club's playoff run that culminated in winning the MLS Cup. Bouanga's performances have earned him numerous accolades, including being named to the MLS Best XI each of the last three seasons.
Berterame: A Rising Star from Liga MX
Germán Berterame, 27, is a rising star in Mexican football. Having arrived in Mexico from Argentina in 2019 with San Luis, Berterame joined CF Monterrey in 2022 and has since become one of the league's most prolific forwards. Since joining Monterrey, he has scored 68 goals and provided 15 assists in all competitions.
In 2025, Berterame had a standout season, scoring 27 goals across all competitions, including three at the FIFA Club World Cup. He has continued his impressive form into 2026, scoring two goals in Monterrey's first three matches of the Clausura season.
Berterame's Impact on Inter Miami
The addition of Berterame is expected to provide Inter Miami with the depth and firepower needed to compete at the highest level. With his goal-scoring prowess and experience in Liga MX, Berterame is poised to make an immediate impact on the team.
As part of the deal, Berterame will occupy one of the DP slots at Inter Miami, joining Rodrigo De Paul, who had his loan turned into a permanent deal for a fee reportedly worth around $17 million. This fee currently stands as the third-highest in MLS history, underscoring the club's commitment to assembling a top-tier roster.
Inter Miami's Busy Offseason
Beyond the signings of Berterame and De Paul, Inter Miami has been active in the transfer market, securing several other key players. The club signed reigning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year and Canadian international Dayne St. Clair, as well as winger Tadeo Allende on a permanent transfer from Celta Vigo, ensuring he does not occupy a DP slot.
The club also secured a loan deal for Brazilian center back Micael from Palmeiras and acquired midfielder David Ayala in a trade with the Portland Timbers. Earlier in the offseason, Miami added former Tottenham left back Sergio Reguilon and Argentine right back Facundo Mura on free transfers.
Strategic Moves Post-Messi
These strategic moves by Inter Miami signal a clear vision for the club as it navigates the post-Messi era. While the Argentine superstar's departure has created a void, the club is working diligently to rebuild and maintain its competitive edge.
With the addition of Berterame and the continued development of existing players, Inter Miami is poised to remain a force in MLS. The club's ambitious approach to the transfer market, coupled with its strong foundation, sets the stage for continued success in the years to come.
Looking Ahead: Inter Miami's Future
As Inter Miami finalizes the Berterame deal, the focus now shifts to integrating the new arrival into the team and preparing for the upcoming season. The club's management is confident that the strategic signings made this offseason will help bridge the gap left by Messi's initial tenure.
With a well-rounded roster and a clear vision for the future, Inter Miami is setting itself up for a successful transition. The club's fans can look forward to an exciting season as they witness the evolution of the team under new leadership and with new faces.
As the MLS landscape continues to evolve, Inter Miami is proving to be a club that is not afraid to take bold steps to achieve its goals. The $15 million investment in Germán Berterame is just one example of the club's commitment to excellence and its determination to remain competitive at the highest level of American soccer.
