MLS Powerhouse Lands Game-Changing Star in Move That Could Crush Inter Miami's Title Dreams
Los Angeles FC have confirmed a long-term deal extension for their standout forward Denis Bouanga, who had reportedly attracted interest from Inter Miami during the winter transfer period.
Bouanga was believed to be on Miami's radar as they searched for attacking reinforcements in the offseason. Luis Suárez fell out of favor with Javier Mascherano late last season, creating a need for new firepower up front. The newly-minted MLS Cup winners allegedly submitted a $15 million bid for Bouanga, which would have ranked as their second-largest transfer at that time.
LAFC firmly rejected their conference rivals, compelling Miami to shift focus toward Germán Berterame, who was acquired for an estimated $15 million fee in late January.
Despite Miami withdrawing from pursuit, interest in Bouanga persisted with Brazilian powerhouse Fluminense reportedly making inquiries earlier this month.
To definitively end any speculation, LAFC have secured Bouanga with a new deal running through 2028, including an option extending through the 2029–30 season.
Bouanga Sets Sights on MLS Championship at Miami's Cost
Bouanga Sets Sights on MLS Championship at Miami's Cost
"I'm thankful to LAFC for believing in me," Bouanga stated to LAFC following his contract announcement.
"Since day one, my family and I have felt welcomed in Los Angeles. It's a privilege to wear this jersey and represent our fans every match. I have faith in our project here, and I'm driven to continue growing, capturing more silverware, and elevating this organization to new heights."
LAFC's pursuit of their first MLS Cup since 2022 began brilliantly. Bouanga netted the second strike in a commanding 3–0 victory over Lionel Messi's Inter Miami at the Los Angeles Coliseum, establishing their championship aspirations. With Bouanga partnering Son Heung-min for an entire campaign, LAFC enter as frontrunners for this year's MLS Cup title.
Maintaining the fitness of Bouanga and Son will be crucial to achieving that goal. From LAFC's previous 34 league strikes, 29 have been either scored or set up by one of the club's dynamic attacking pair. Miami would welcome such dependence on just two players.
Miami Seeks to Reduce Messi Dependency
Miami Seeks to Reduce Messi Dependency
Bouanga and Son collaborated to produce 42 regular season goal contributions in 2025. Messi accumulated 45 individually. The Argentine legend contributes minimally defensively—recording just 13 defensive actions throughout the year—but Miami's entire offensive structure revolves around the 38-year-old.
Signing Berterame (and pursuing Bouanga) was partly intended to ease Messi's burden. Despite his MLS excellence, even he faces limitations—especially during a year featuring his final World Cup campaign.
Any assessment of Berterame remains premature. His challenging 90-minute debut against LAFC followed disrupted preparation due to work permit complications.
Should he replicate the finishing prowess displayed at Monterrey, there's potential for reducing Miami's complete reliance on Messi in attack. However, that significant "should" wouldn't apply to an established MLS performer like Bouanga.