TRANSFER TRACKER: Rumor
Longtime former Barcelona and Argentina men’s national team defender/midfielder Javier Mascherano could be heading to Inter Miami CF for the 2020 MLS season, according to various overseas reports. One from Argentine journalist Cesar Luis Merlo even goes as far as to say there's a formal offer and talks have reached an advanced stage.
Mascherano is heavily linked with the expansion side, as he’s nearing the end of his contract with Hebei China Fortune of the Chinese Super League. Mascherano, 35, has 147 caps for Argentina and has also played extensively in the Premier League with Liverpool and West Ham.
This type of signing would provide ample experience to Miami’s roster and Mascherano is regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders of the last several decades.
To date, Miami’s signings have all been 21 or younger, with several young South Americans highlighting the side: Venezuelan midfielder Christian Makoun and Argentine attackers Matias Pellegrini and Julian Carranza.
The club has had numerous links to high-profile players, with co-owner Jorge Mas adding fuel to the fire this past August.
“You’ll see more young signings coming soon, high-profile players,” Mas said at the time. “We’re investing in these players, paying significant transfer fees.”
As Miami nears their inaugural season, the roster is largely being shaped by sporting director Paul McDonough, who has led similar expansion projects in Atlanta and Orlando. Aside from the international market, McDonough and Miami are also eyeing the Expansion Draft on Nov. 19. They hold the No. 1 overall pick ahead of fellow 2020 expansion side Nashville SC.
