Inter Miami’s preseason is just around the corner.
After a subpar end to 2023, the Herons are ensuring they have a roster that can compete next season.
“We’re looking at everything to [improve the squad.] We have high hopes for 2024, and we want to show what we can do as a club,” said club CSO Chris Henderson.
“Winning trophies and having high ambition is something we’ve had since day one.”
Miami has already signed ex-Barcelona striker Luis Suarez and is also in talks to sign free agent Julian Gressel, according to The Athletic.
Inter Miami’s preseason plans
Furthermore, Inter Miami is also on the search for a central defender, after trading Canada international Kamal Miller for $625,000 in General Allocation Money.
Miller, 26, was a fan favorite and often got the Herons out of difficult situations on the pitch. However, his lack of pace and inconsistency made it hard on Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender, as the men in pink struggled in the latter half of the season.
Young Argentine center back Tomas ‘Toto’ Aviles will likely take the Canadian’s spot.
Not only is Aviles just 19 years old, but the ex-Racing man possesses the athleticism and ball-playing ability that Miami manager Tata Martino wants in his defenders.
Although the club may have just five senior center backs on its squad, there’s still plenty of time to add to the group before the season kicks off on February 21st.
As for preseason, Miami may head into its six-game run without defensive reinforcements.
Inter Miami is getting ready for a cross-continent preseason tour that’s set to kick off in mid-January.
The Herons will take on the El Salvador National Team on January 19th, before heading to Saudi Arabia to play Al Hilal on January 29th, and Al Nassr on February 1st.
The men in pink will round off the trip by flying to East Asia to play the Hong Kong League All-Stars on February 4th, Vissel Kobe on February 7th before making the trek back to Fort Lauderdale to play Newell’s Old Boys on February 15th.