InterMiami have begun reshaping their roster as several deals from the 2025 season come to an end. Ahead of the new campaign, Lionel Messi is about to get a big selection boost, with the Herons reportedly reaching an agreement to bring back an MLS Cup champion on a permanent deal.
As Javier Mascherano’s tenure on the sidelines began, Inter Miami 2025 began with securing various short-term contracts, including one-year contracts and loan agreements. One of those moves involved the goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novowho initially returned to Argentine side Lanús at the end of the season before his situation took a new turn.
According to Argentine transfer expert Germán García Grova Inter Miami have reached an agreement with Lanús to sign Ríos Novo on a permanent contract. The club initially declined to exercise the purchase option included in his loan, but following renewed talks, the 23-year-old is now just a stone’s throw away from completing his return to Fort Lauderdale.
Valued at €600,000 Transfer marketThe transfer fee has not yet been announced, but the deal reportedly involves Inter Miami acquiring 70 percent of the player’s sporting rightswith Lanús retaining the remaining 30 percent. The Argentinian goalkeeper does expects to sign a three-year contractkeeping him at the club until the end of the 2028 season.
Rocco Rios Novo #34 of Inter Miami CF.
After the departure of Drake Callender and with Oscar Ustari Sidelined by injury, Ríos Novo seized his opportunity and emerged as the starting goalkeeper during Inter Miami MLS Cup running. Good for 19 goals and five clean sheets in 20 gameshis presence between the posts could be crucial to Messi’s ambitions heading into the 2026 season.
see also
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are reportedly taking a big step towards signing Argentina international Gio Lo Celso
Two important goals for Inter Miami between the posts
Inter Miami was one of the most consistent teams in North America last season, competing in multiple competitions, including the CONCACAF Champions Cup, Leagues Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup, in addition to their MLS title. Looking ahead to 2026, The club is now prioritizing depth and stability in goal, as part of a wider effort to remain competitive on all fronts.
As reported in mid-December by The Athletic’s Tom Bogert: Inter Miami also pursuing a deal for Minnesota United goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, member of the 2025 MLS Best XI. With St. Clair nearing the end of his contract and Ríos Novo already familiar with the club, the Herons will soon be able to boast both an established starter of international caliber and a proven long-term option in goal.
#Lionel #Messi #set #major #roster #boost #Inter #Miami #reportedly #agrees #permanent #deal #MLS #champions