Kamal Miller’s Departure Gives Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami a New Lifeline Before 2024 MLS Season

Inter Miami looks determined to hit the ground running. The Herons continue to make significant changes to the roster for the upcoming campaign. In a similar twist, Kamal Miller has officially parted ways with Lionel Messi and his teammates, giving a breath of fresh air to the Florida-based team just as the 2024 season is about to begin. The news broke just hours ago, as Miami announced they sold the center back to the Portland Timbers.

David Beckham‘s soccer franchise has received $625,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM), of which $500,000 will be received in 2024 and the remaining $125,000 in 2025. Kamal Miller’s departure also frees up an international slot on the 2024 roster, meaning they could bring in another foreign star.

If the defender signs with a non-MLS team, the team will keep a portion of any future transfer fees that may be incurred. Additionally, if Miller meets certain performance goals, the team may receive an additional $150,000 in GAM. Notably, the Canadian international arrived at DRV PNK Stadium in April of this year after leaving CF Montréal. He had a significant influence when playing for Miami, appearing in 35 games, making seven starts in the Leagues Cup, also lifting the club’s first-ever silverware.

With this transfer, Miller will reunite with Phil Neville, the former Inter Miami boss who took over as head coach of Portland in early November. Nevertheless, this is a great move for all the parties involved. Meanwhile, Tata Martino would be required to sign Miller’s replacement. It seems they are one step ahead, as they already have a name on the table. 

Who will Lionel Messi and Co. replace Kamal Miller with? 

As per the latest reports, Inter Miami is in negotiations to sign Botafogo star Victor Cuesta. Talks are underway over the central defender, who is presently on loan from Internacional to Botafogo. Additional reports suggest that the 35-year-old defender could be a part of a trade agreement, with midfielder Gregore possibly going the other way.

READ MORE: Real Images of Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami Home Kit Leaked for 2024

While the specifics of the negotiations are unknown, the talks are progressing, and a deal is closer to a conclusion. Interestingly, Lionel Messi had earlier called up the former Manchester United defender, Marcos Rojo. Reportedly, the player rejected the offer to reunite with his Argentinian teammate. Either way, the replacement of Kamal Miller remains to be finalized. Do you have any names popping up in your head? Let us know in the comments below.

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