Inter Miami Land World Cup Sensation in Stunning Free Agent Coup
Inter Miami has officially announced the acquisition of 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair, providing a significant enhancement to their pursuit of consecutive MLS Cup championships and additional trophies in 2026.
The 28-year-old goalkeeper had been previously connected with the franchise in December and immediately assumed the starting role, replacing MLS Cup champion keeper Rocco Rios Novo, who was the primary goalkeeper during the playoff run.
His contract extends through the 2026 campaign with a club option for the shortened 14-match 2027 season.
Previously with Minnesota United, St. Clair represents the newest acquisition in an active offseason for the Herons, following the recruitment of former Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United defender Sergio Reguilón, along with fullback Facundo Mura and the contract extension of veteran forward Luis Suárez.
As the premier available talent in the MLS free agency market, St. Clair allegedly declined a $1 million proposal to remain with Minnesota United. He entered the organization via the 2019 MLS SuperDraft, accumulating 174 regular-season games and contributing to their fourth-place Western Conference finish in 2025 before reaching the conference semifinal round.
During the previous campaign, the Brampton, Ontario goalkeeper secured his second MLS All-Star selection and topped the league with a 77.93 save percentage, while also achieving career-best marks of 113 saves and 10 shutouts in 30 regular season contests.
"I'm incredibly thrilled to be joining this organization and anticipate representing you both on and off the pitch," St. Clair expressed in a promotional video. "I'm eager to arrive in Miami and begin our preparations to capture championships."
Miami acquired St. Clair without paying a transfer fee; nevertheless, he is anticipated to receive a substantial salary increase from his $610,000 base compensation with the Loons in 2025.
Inter Miami's World Cup Representation Grows
Through St. Clair's signing, Inter Miami will expand their presence at the 2026 World Cup, with the goalkeeper positioned as a leading candidate to start for co-host nation Canada in Group B matches against Switzerland, Qatar and one of Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Northern Ireland or Wales.
Simultaneously, he will compete against his fellow Canadian goalkeeper in MLS competition as Maxime Crépeau is expected to join Miami's Florida rivalry opponents, Orlando City SC, intensifying their developing competitive relationship.
With St. Clair joining the squad, Miami also guarantees the club will receive additional attention at the inaugural 48-nation World Cup. Beyond St. Clair representing Canada, Miami will likely feature Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul with Argentina, and possibly Ian Fray with Jamaica, should they advance through an inter-confederation playoff in March.
The Herons will commence the 2026 MLS campaign on Feb. 21 with a match at LAFC, following their 2026 preseason preparations with a South American tour, visiting Peru, Ecuador and Colombia as part of their readiness program.
Beyond MLS Cup, Inter Miami will also target the Supporters' Shield, the Concacaf Champions Cup and Leagues Cup in 2026.