Why Casemiro's MLS move could reshape Inter Miami's midfield structure

LA Galaxy holds a significant procedural advantage in the race for Casemiro's signature, as they currently possess the midfielder's "discovery rights" in MLS, providing them with a major strategic edge. The Galaxy, valued at $1 billion by Forbes, sees Casemiro as an ideal addition, following in the footsteps of David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimović, former European stars who left their mark at the club.

Galaxy has already lost Riqui Puig for most of the 2026 season due to another ACL injury, and while Casemiro is not a direct replacement, he brings the experience needed for the club to challenge for silverware once again.

Financial and Personal Factors

Casemiro is reportedly prepared to lower his salary expectations to join Messi at Inter Miami, with the midfielder and his family preferring Miami over any other proposed destination. Reports from Diario AS suggest Casemiro purchased a home in Miami during a recent family vacation, signaling a lean toward the Herons.

Inter Miami is exploring whether it could sign Casemiro under MLS's Designated Player rule, which allows teams to sign up to three players whose wages exceed the league's salary cap. His massive wages at Manchester United led to the decision to let him leave when his contract expires, despite the club still viewing him as a key figure.

What This Means for MLS's Evolution

Casemiro's potential arrival represents MLS's continued ability to attract elite European talent in their prime years rather than just retirement moves. At 34, he remains productive, having arguably his best season at Old Trafford since joining, with nine goals and two assists in 33 games.

The move would create one of MLS's most intriguing tactical partnerships, pairing Messi's creative brilliance with Casemiro's defensive structure. Rather than reuniting with Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, Casemiro is looking to join a select group of players who have played with both Ronaldo and Messi, seeking the chance to work with the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner after spending years trying to stop him in Clásicos.