Inter Miami have been dealt their latest transfer blow as target James Rodriguez has chosen his next destination.
The Herons look set to miss out on the Colombian star as he looks headed for Mexico, the news will be another blow to Javier Mascherano.
Mascherano expressed his “worries” over the team’s lack of signings during the MLS Media Day but did highlight that transfers were being worked on.
One signing that was being worked on saw Inter Miami agree on a deal with Casa Pia’s Telasco Segovia.
Rodriguez picks Club Leon
While Inter Miami showed clear interest in Rodriguez it appears he has decided to join the Mexican side Club Leon according to journalist Leon Omar Tapia.
The Herons knew they were competing with Boca Juniors, River Plate and Colombian side Junior FC for the former Real Madrid stars signature, but Club Leon came out of the blue.
Inter Miami fans will be happy about the Rodriguez news however, they previously made their feelings clear that the club should avoid him.
According to AS, Rodriguez’s main priority was to remain in Europe, with the former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich superstar not too convinced about a move to MLS just yet in his career despite interest from Inter Miami.
It appears the idea of Europe wasn’t so strong in the end and any deal to sign Rodriguez would have likely seen Inter Miami use their free Designated Player slot on the star.
Giving up the spot to Rodriguez may have been detrimental as Neymar has expressed his desire to play alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez again.
Inter Miami turns attention to another Rodriguez
While it appears the club may have missed out on James Rodriguez they are now in the market for his name-sake.
Inter Miami is chasing Baltasar Rodriguez who is just 21 years old and has the potential to grow into a future Herons star.
Baltasar much like James primarily plays as an attacking midfielder but he can also deputize on the right wing.
His strengths lie with the ball at his feet, with his playmaking abilities being a key part of his game.
Fans will be hoping to have Baltasar in their squad by the time they play their opening MLS game. Inter Miami face a tough New York City FC side.