Although many Inter Miami supporters get excited at the thought of incoming transfers, this off-season some players will leave as well.
Miami Chief Sporting Officer Chris Henderson addressed the media during his annual end-of-year press conference where he hinted that, through trades, players could leave the team: “Clubs are also asking for some of our players.”
This comes as no surprise.
For the last six months, thanks to the arrival of Lionel Messi, Inter Miami’s profile in Major League Soccer has risen. With that higher status, it’s natural that teams around the league will want to take advantage of players who may not fit manager Tata Martino’s tactical style.
In order to challenge for more silverware, getting rid of players deemed ‘excessive’ will be beneficial in the long run.
Here are three names on Inter Miami’s roster that could be valuable in the trade market.
Christopher McVey
Christopher McVey was once a key part of Inter Miami’s squad. The Swedish-born American was a standout in 2022, playing in almost every match that season.
In 2023 however, he fell down the pecking order in favor of defenders like Kamal Miller, Tomas Aviles and Ryan Sailor.
At only 26 years old, McVey would be a valuable piece on any roster in MLS. He’s tall, quick, and can play as a full-back as well.
Jean Mota
Jean Mota was another standout in 2022 who quickly cemented himself in Inter Miami’s starting eleven. The silky Brazilian possesses great flair and excellent ball-striking ability. Unfortunately, 2023 saw him on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury that kept him out most of the season.
Though Mota has characteristics that are needed on Miami’s roster, his wages may be too much for the South Florida club to keep on. Should another MLS team come in for him, the Herons will be more than happy to trade the ex-Santos man for extra allocation money.
Drake Callender
Drake Callender has been a brick wall at Inter Miami for the past two years.
The California native quickly climbed up the depth sheet, where he claimed the starting goalkeeper job for himself.
This season, the 26-year-old etched his name in club history by stopping the game-winning penalty in the Leagues Cup Final, helping Miami clinch its first title.
If Henderson’s word is any indication, Callender may have suitors around the league that will be interested in his services.
The ex-San Jose Earthquakes man has become one of the best shot stoppers in MLS. Should another team come in with a big-money trade offer, it will be difficult to see Miami turning that down, especially with rumors that the team is interested in bringing in former Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea.
Whatever direction Miami goes in, what’s clear is that the Herons will be active in the trade market.