Inter Miami Eyes Two Massive Transfer Coups After Latest Star Acquisition—Report
Inter Miami has officially announced the acquisition of Brazilian central defender Micael from Palmeiras on a loan deal extending through the 2026 Major League Soccer campaign, including an option to secure a permanent move.
The 25-year-old defender is heading to southern Florida following his 2025 stint in São Paulo, where he tallied 28 matches and contributed one assist for Palmeiras. Micael previously encountered the Herons during his tenure with the Brazilian club at the FIFA Club World Cup group phase, which concluded in a 2–2 stalemate.
The defender brings MLS familiarity to the table, having dedicated five years developing through Houston Dynamo's system. After earning his place in the senior squad, he accumulated 80 matches across two campaigns, contributing to the team's 2023 U.S. Open Cup victory over Inter Miami at Chase Stadium.
The central defender subsequently departed for Palmeiras in 2025 in a deal worth approximately $6 million, marking Houston Dynamo's record transfer fee. He now returns to American soil to support the recently crowned MLS Cup winners in their inaugural championship defense.
Inter Miami 'Eyeing' MLS Defender of the Year Tristan Blackmon
Micael becomes part of the Herons roster alongside MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair, plus defenders Facundo Mura and Sergio Reguilón. These four new additions strengthen an already formidable Inter Miami squad, though the organization continues its recruitment efforts.
Per the Miami Herald, the Herons have reportedly reached an agreement with Argentine midfielder David Ayala. The 23-year-old is expected to join Miami through a $2 million transaction from Portland Timbers, providing Javier Mascherano with additional midfield options following Sergio Busquets's departure from professional soccer.
The publication additionally suggests Inter Miami is pursuing Vancouver Whitecaps defender Tristan Blackmon. The 29-year-old earned the MLS Defender of the Year honor following his outstanding defensive campaign for the MLS Cup finalists.
Nevertheless, The Athletic's Tom Bogert indicates that the Whitecaps are reluctant to part with Blackmon despite the Herons' $3 million offer.
As the 2026 season draws near, the window is closing for the reigning MLS Cup champions to complete Blackmon's signing. Regardless of whether the standout center back joins, Mascherano will appreciate the defensive reinforcements already bound for southern Florida after experiencing defensive struggles the previous year.