MLS probes Inter Miami over Casemiro transfer

Major League Soccer has initiated an investigation into Inter Miami concerning allegations of tampering related to the recent signing of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro. The club announced Wednesday that the 34-year-old had joined on a deal through the end of the 2027 MLS season, with an option to extend until June 2029.

Shortly after the announcement, MLS confirmed it was reviewing a tampering allegation. The core of the investigation lies in discovery rights, an MLS mechanism granting a club the first opportunity to negotiate with a player seeking to join the league. Los Angeles Galaxy initially held these rights for the former Manchester United midfielder, but Inter Miami claims to have acquired them prior to the signing.

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The league is gathering all relevant information and will refrain from further comment until the review is complete.

MLS stated it is gathering all relevant information and will refrain from further comment until the review is complete. The terms of the agreement between Inter Miami and the Galaxy are expected to be disclosed only after the investigation concludes. Casemiro departed Manchester United at the end of last season by mutual agreement, having made 160 appearances, scoring 26 goals, and providing 14 assists during his tenure, which included winning the EFL Cup and FA Cup.

This latest inquiry marks another instance of Inter Miami facing league scrutiny. In 2021, the club was fined $2 million for violating MLS roster and salary rules concerning the signing of midfielder Blaise Matuidi. Casemiro expressed his motivation to keep competing at the highest level, while co-owner David Beckham welcomed the signing, highlighting Casemiro's winning experience.

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What motivates me the most, and I think this is true for every player, is winning and continuing to grow.