Javier Mascherano has his eyes set on his first Inter Miami signing and he’s backing a fellow countryman to do the job.
Since taking charge of Inter Miami, after the early MLS playoff exit, Mascherano is yet to stamp his authority on the side.
While Inter Miami have been linked with several star names including Neymar, Kevin De Bruyne and Mo Salah they are yet to bring any new faces in.
That will change in the MLS SuperDraft which will take place on Friday, December 20th. Some top names on Inter Miami’s list could include Daniel D’lppolito.
The club will be looking to replace the departed Diego Gomez who has joined Premier League side Brighton. However, it is a defender that Mascherano is keen to bring in.
Mascherano keen on Lomonaco
While it appears that Inter Miami have bigger gaps to fill than in the centre of their defence they did ship quite a few goals last season, 49 in 34 regular season games to be exact.
It should come as no surprise that in his first club coaching role, Mascherano would look to bring in familiar players, and his countryman Kevin Lomonaco fits the bill.
Mascherano is said to be keen on adding the quality of Lomonaco the the Herons’ defence, according to Pasion Futbol.
At the age of 22, Lomonaco has his best years ahead of him and it could highlight Mascherano’s attempts to build towards the future.
The Independiente defender has been a shining light in the Argentine Primera Division with his physicality, aerial ability and leadership all being praised.
It is clear that his current side will not want to lose their future prospect but the lure of playing with Lionel Messi might be too tempting.
Other defenders linked to Inter Miami
While numerous attacking talents have been linked with a move to the Chase Stadium, a fair few defenders have also been rumoured.
Benfica’s battle-hardened centre-back Nicolas Otamendi has been linked with a move which isn’t surprising considering he becomes a free agent in the summer.
Perhaps the most interesting link has to be from another Argentinian Nicolas Tagliafico. The star appeared to issue a come and get me plea to Inter Miami during an online stream.
One player the Herons won’t be getting is Sergio Ramos, it appears Boca Juniors lead the race for the World Cup winner.
While it seems clear that Inter Miami will be busy before the MLS season kicks off we are still awaiting the first signing of Mascherano’s tenure.