Dark Horse MLS Club Emerges as Shock Contender for Mexico Star Gilberto Mora

Dark Horse MLS Club Emerges as Shock Contender for Mexico Star Gilberto Mora

The future destination of Gilberto Mora remains a hot topic in football circles, with Inter Miami reportedly joining the race to secure the Mexican national team prodigy.

With five goal contributions across four matches in the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, Mora has established himself among the globe's most sought-after young talents. At just past his 17th birthday, this third-youngest participant in the U-20 World Cup has emerged as the competition's standout performer.

Elite European powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, Arsenal and Manchester City have all been connected to the Tijuana playmaker, though Inter Miami, known for their high-profile acquisitions in recent years, has now joined the conversation.

The Florida-based club seeks to revamp their recruitment approach following the departures of both Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. Per Sport, Miami desires to shift from pursuing veteran stars toward becoming the top choice for exceptional young prospects worldwide.

Mora exemplifies this new direction perfectly, though with elite global clubs also pursuing the teenager, any potential transfer for the youngster will command a substantial fee.

Gilberto Mora's Agent Speaks on His Transfer Value

Gilberto Mora

Mora must wait until reaching 18 years old before departing Liga MX due to FIFA transfer regulations. Nevertheless, clubs can negotiate agreements with Tijuana in advance and simply await the Mexican talent's 18th birthday to complete the transfer.

Current reports indicate that European bids have already been submitted for Mora, though Tijuana has turned them down due to insufficient valuations.

Mora's representative Rafaela Pimenta, who also manages Erling Haaland and fellow Mexican international Santiago Gimenez, discussed Mora's worth and suggested what acquiring the Mexican sensation would require.

"With €15 million ($17.4 million) I can't even buy one of Gilberto Mora's legs," Pimenta told TUDN.

Tijuana refuses to part with Mora below that figure, according to sources, with the club anticipating the final transfer fee to reach nearly twice that sum.

Should Mora maintain his current development path, he'll likely feature in Mexico's 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. Participation in next summer's tournament would likely increase his market value further.

Miami confronts significant obstacles in pursuing the wonderkid, not only due to his escalating price tag, but also his apparent preference for European football.