Inter Miami Berterame Deal: Messi Leads 2026 Preseason Training

Inter Miami, the defending MLS Cup champions, returned to training this week. The club begins what could be the most important season in MLS history. After the title win over Vancouver, the players received an extra week of rest. They reported back to the Florida Blue Training Center fully recharged and ready for 2026.

Media attended the opening training session. Images from the first day spread quickly online. They showed new signings arriving, teammates sharing familiar embraces, and a squad fully focused on the new season. Lionel Messi also made his presence felt immediately. The club captain was seen striking the ball sharply in training, setting the tone as he and the team target new goals for 2026 — especially the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

But the real story goes beyond Miami’s return to the pitch. The club is pushing hard in the transfer market. They already added players like David Ayala and Facundo Mura, and they are now prepared to break the bank again.

Latest Updates on the Inter Miami Berterame Deal

According to reporting from Felipe Galindo, Inter Miami have officially submitted a $15 million bid to sign Monterrey striker Germán Berterame, matching the release clause set by the Liga MX club.

The player is reportedly eager to join Miami, with multiple outlets indicating that Lionel Messi personally spoke to Berterame to convince him of the project.

Jorge Mas Confirms the Bid

Club owner Jorge Mas publicly acknowledged the offer today:

“We are interested in Germán Berterame. He’s a great player, and we want top players to come to Inter Miami. So yes, it’s true that we made an offer for him. We’re expecting a response in the next 24 to 36 hours.”

Per Tom Bogert, negotiations are in the final stages, with all parties close to reaching an agreement.

Berterame delivered an elite 2025 season with CF Monterrey:

• 27 goals
• 5 assists
• 47 appearances

Beyond his finishing ability, Berterame is known for his physical pressing, constant movement, and relentless energy — attributes that would pair seamlessly with Messi’s playmaking in Miami’s frontline.

What It Means for Miami’s Roster: U22 Slot Decision Looms

If Inter Miami complete the Berterame deal, they must address a U22 Initiative roster constraint.

Miami currently operate under the 2 DP + 4 U22 model, and adding Berterame as a Designated Player would require the club to free up a U22 slot.

The most likely outgoing player, according to league sources, is Tomás Avilés, who has generated interest abroad. While there has been speculation surrounding Telasco Segovia, Jorge Mas confirmed today that Segovia will remain at the club.

These decisions will shape Miami’s midfield and defensive depth as they prepare for multiple competitions in 2026.

Tadeo Allende Set to Return After Breakthrough Postseason

Another major update from Mas’ media availability was confirmation that Tadeo Allende will return to Inter Miami after the club reached an agreement with Celta Vigo.

Allende, who produced a historic postseason run — including breaking the MLS playoff goal-scoring record — had drawn serious interest from River Plate. River pushed aggressively, even submitting multiple offers, but the player made his preference clear: he wants to continue in Miami.

This move solidifies Miami’s attacking depth for 2026.

Additional Preseason Matches Being Explored — Including Asia

Mas also revealed that the previously announced preseason tour is not yet final.

Inter Miami are exploring additional matches, with Asia emerging as a potential destination — a move that aligns with the club’s global brand expansion and Messi-driven international demand.

Key Takeaways from Mas’ Pre-Press Conference Update:

• Tadeo Allende will return to Inter Miami
• Telasco Segovia will remain at the club
• A preseason tour of Asia is being considered
• An offer has been submitted for Germán Berterame

Mas also clarified that deals for Baltasar Rodríguez and Tristan Blackmon have become complicated.

• Vancouver rejected Miami’s latest offer for Blackmon.
• Racing Club are firm on a $4.5M fee for Rodríguez — a number that would classify him as a U22 Initiative signing, a category where Miami currently lack room.

These negotiations remain ongoing and will play a significant role in defining Miami’s squad structure for 2026.

A Postseason Like No Other — And Miami Are Not Finished Yet

Inter Miami’s offseason activity has already captured attention across the league. Between transfer bids, returning stars, and high-profile preseason plans, the club’s ambition is unmistakable. As Jorge Mas put it, the best version of Inter Miami is still ahead, with the CONCACAF Champions Cup emerging as a primary target for 2026.

With momentum, confidence, and unprecedented global spotlight, Miami are shaping up for one of the most anticipated seasons in MLS history.