Transfer news: Inter Miami targeted by investigation after Casemiro signing

Barely official, Casemiro's transfer to Inter Miami is already sparking a heated controversy in the United States. Major League Soccer (MLS) has announced the opening of an investigation to determine whether the Florida franchise violated its rules during the signing of the Brazilian international.

The 34-year-old midfielder, who arrived on a free transfer after the end of his time at Manchester United, is now at the center of an administrative case that could cost his new club dearly.

In a statement, MLS confirmed it was investigating allegations of illegal player recruitment. "Major League Soccer is investigating an allegation of illegal recruitment involving Inter Miami CF. The league is currently gathering all necessary information and will not comment further until the investigation is complete," the statement said.

This case hinges on a peculiarity of MLS regulations: "Discovery Rights." This mechanism allows a franchise to obtain exclusive priority in negotiating with a player playing outside the league before any other club can contact him.

In Casemiro's case, these rights belonged to the Los Angeles Galaxy. Inter Miami therefore entered into discussions without respecting this procedure, which already obliges them to compensate the Californian franchise.

Although a financial agreement has been reached between the two clubs, the final amount of this compensation could be modified depending on the conclusions of the investigation conducted by MLS.

This new episode is reminiscent of another case that rocked Inter Miami in 2021. The club was found guilty of circumventing the salary cap by not declaring the full remuneration of certain players, notably that of Blaise Matuidi.

The punishment was severe: a two million dollar fine imposed on the franchise and a one-year suspension for its then-sports director, Paul McDonough.

Despite this latest controversy, Inter Miami is continuing its strategy of recruiting experienced players. Casemiro has signed a contract until 2027, with an option to extend it until 2029.

A former pillar of Real Madrid, with five Champions League titles, and later a key player for Manchester United, the defensive midfielder will bring his immense experience to the Florida squad.

He will notably be reunited with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, while Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba have left the field after retiring at the end of last season.

Now, attention is focused as much on the Brazilian's sporting performances as on the conclusions of the investigation, which could once again tarnish the image of Inter Miami.