Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami Set Sights on Major Move for Argentine Star Ahead of 2026

Inter Miami Looks to Strengthen Roster with Giovanni Lo Celso

Following their historic MLS Cup win, Inter Miami is already setting its sights on bigger goals. Co-owner Jorge Mas has stated that the team’s primary objective for 2026 is to pursue the Concacaf Champions Cup. To achieve this, head coach Javier Mascherano will likely have a stronger roster with greater depth, which the team lacked during the 2025 season despite coming close to winning.
In preparation for the upcoming season, Inter Miami has made significant changes to its roster. Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets have announced their retirements, and the team has already begun reinforcing certain positions. However, a major move is reportedly in the works to bring in Argentine two-time Copa America winner Giovanni Lo Celso.

Lo Celso’s Potential Arrival and the Need for Defensive Reinforcement

According to journalists Alex Merida and Manu Colchon, Giovanni Lo Celso is open to leaving Real Betis due to a lack of playing time, which would hinder his chances of returning to the Argentina national team for the 2026 World Cup. Inter Miami is reportedly interested in securing his services, with Real Betis asking for €5 million, an amount the team is willing to pay.
While Lo Celso’s potential arrival would be a significant boost to the team, it would not eliminate the need for defensive midfield reinforcement. Neither Lo Celso nor Rodrigo De Paul specialize in defense, meaning the pressing need for a Busquets replacement would still exist. Pairing Lo Celso’s arrival with the addition of a true defensive midfielder could allow Inter Miami to address its defensive issues, enhancing both solidity and creativity.

Lo Celso’s Current Situation and Potential Move to Inter Miami

Giovanni Lo Celso has taken on a rotation role at Real Betis this season, with Pablo Fornals and Nelson Deossa securing spots in the starting lineup. Despite this, coach Manuel Pellegrini values him as a crucial player in the rotation, with Lo Celso having logged 1,203 minutes for the team. However, his impact hasn’t matched his impressive performance from the 2024-25 season. A potential move to Inter Miami could offer him a chance to rediscover his best form.

Inter Miami’s Ambitious Plans for the 2026 Season

With an improved roster in mind, the Herons have renewed the contracts of Luis Suárez and Ian Fray. Sergio Reguilón has also arrived to reinforce the left-back position, providing a strong response to Jordi Alba’s retirement. Meanwhile, Dayne St. Clair and Facundo Mura are in negotiations to finalize their moves to Inter Miami, a list that could also include a defensive midfielder and Giovanni Lo Celso, given the uncertainty surrounding Tadeo Allende’s future.

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