Inter Miami announced the signing of Brazil midfielder and five-time Champions League winner Casemiro on Wednesday, triggering a Major League Soccer investigation into whether the reigning league champion engaged in tampering to complete the deal. According to league officials, the inquiry centers on the acquisition of the 34-year-old veteran, whose discovery rights were held by the LA Galaxy prior to a settlement between the clubs.
Casemiro Contract Details and MLS Calendar Context
Casemiro has agreed to a contract with Inter Miami through the end of the 2027 sprint season, featuring an extension option that runs through June 2029, according to club announcements. The midfielder arrives after making appearances in all five of Brazil’s matches at the recent World Cup, where he scored a goal against Japan in the round of 32. His club career includes the past four seasons with Manchester United and a prior tenure with Real Madrid.
The signing aligns with a structural shift in Major League Soccer, which is officially transitioning from its traditional spring-to-fall schedule to an international-style summer-to-spring calendar running from July through May. To bridge the gap between the 2026 campaign and the start of the full 2027–28 season, the league established the 2027 Sprint Season—a one-time, truncated 14-match tournament running from February to May 2027.
MLS Tampering Investigation and Galaxy Settlement
Under league rules, the LA Galaxy held Casemiro’s discovery rights, which normally would have prevented Inter Miami from negotiating with the player. The two franchises ultimately reached a settlement that allowed Inter Miami to finalize the transaction, but Major League Soccer launched an ongoing review into the circumstances surrounding the negotiations.
“The league is gathering all relevant information and will refrain from further comment until the review is complete,” MLS stated regarding the probe. “While Inter Miami CF and the LA Galaxy have reached a settlement for the Discovery Priority to sign Casemiro, the terms will be released upon conclusion of the tampering investigation.”
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham welcomed the acquisition, stating, “He is a winner who has achieved so much in the game and after such an incredible career with Real Madrid and Manchester United I’m delighted that he’s decided to make Miami his next home.”
Debut Timeline and Visa Status
The exact date of Casemiro’s on-field debut for Inter Miami remains uncertain. The club confirmed that the player is currently waiting on the issuance of the necessary visa before he can join the squad for training and match action.