Inter Miami will revamp its squad in 2024.
According to Miami Sporting Director Chris Henderson, the club will be active in the winter window through trades and free agency: “Without tipping what we’re going to do in trades, I do feel that we need to have competition in every spot.”
Major League Soccer is unlike any football league in the world. Trading players is normal in the United States and something non-US-based supporters will have to become accustomed to.
There are also multiple ways to construct a roster in MLS. One major roster-building tool is free agency.
Free agency is a helpful mechanism for MLS teams to add depth and/or key starters to their squad.
In 2024, there will be a myriad of highly sought-after free agents that could help Inter Miami win more silverware.
Here are three potential options.
Julian Gressel
Julian Gressel is a versatile player who would be an ideal fit for Inter Miami’s roster.
An MLS veteran, the journeyman excels in midfield or as a right-wing back. With Miami manager Tata Martino looking at switching to a 3-5-2 in 2024, Gressel would be a solid player as a wing-back or midfielder. Furthermore, the 29-year-old played under Martino at Atlanta United from 2017 to 2019, where the duo won MLS Cup in 2018.
Gressel would be a adaptable option for Miami should the German make his way to South Florida.
Leandro Gonzalez Pirez
Although Gonazlez Pirez is technically still on Miami’s roster, he’ll qualify for free agency in MLS once his loan at River Plate expires.
Gonalez Pirez played for Inter Miami from 2020 to 2021. He would subsequently go on loan to River Plate in early 2022, where he’s been since.
Henderson mentioned the Argentine in his annual end-of-year press conference, stating that Miami is in discussions with River to potentially bring the defender back to the club: “River has an option to purchase him, let’s see what River does there.”
If the 31-year-old returns to Miami, he’ll be a much-needed addition to a shaky Miami defense.
Nicolas Lodeiro
Lastly, Seattle Sounders talisman Nicolás Lodeiro will be without a club at the end of 2023.
The Uruguayan has been with the Sounders since mid-2016, leading them to several trophies, including an MLS Cup title in the same year.
Though he’s 34 years old, Lodeiro could give Inter Miami quality minutes.
His creativity, knack for linking defense to attack, and vision would be a wonderful fit for the Herons, especially when Messi is away on international duty or rest.
Whoever Miami decides to bring into the club, the player must fit the tactical vision that the organization has in mind.