Dark Horse MLS Club Emerges as Shock Contender for Mexico Star Gilberto Mora
The future destination of Gilberto Mora remains a hot topic, 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 days 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 Herons are looking to revamp their recruitment approach after the departures of both Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. Per Sport, Miami seeks to shift from pursuing veteran stars to establishing themselves as the top choice for exceptional young prospects worldwide.
Mora matches this vision perfectly, though with elite global clubs also pursuing the youngster, any potential transfer for the teenager won't be inexpensive.
Gilberto Mora's Agent Speaks on His Transfer Value
Mora must wait until his 18th birthday to depart Liga MX due to FIFA's transfer regulations. Nevertheless, clubs can negotiate agreements with Tijuana in advance and simply await the Mexican talent's coming of age to complete the transfer.
Latest 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 star 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 purchase one of Gilberto Mora's legs," Pimenta stated to TUDN.
Tijuana refuses to part with Mora for less than that figure, according to sources, with the club anticipating the final price to be nearly twice that amount.
Should Mora maintain his current form, 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 a significant challenge in attempting to sign the prodigy, not only due to his escalating price tag, but also his apparent desire to transition to European football.