Major League Soccer (MLS) has launched an investigation into allegations of tampering involving Inter Miami following the club’s signing of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro.
Inter Miami announced on Wednesday that the 34-year-old had signed a contract running until 2027. It comes with an option to extend until June 2029.
Shortly after the announcement, MLS confirmed it was reviewing the transfer.
“The league is gathering all relevant information and will refrain from further comment until the review is complete.”
The investigation centres on Casemiro’s discovery rights, an MLS rule that gives one club first refusal if a listed player wants to join the league.
LA Galaxy held Casemiro’s discovery rights before Inter Miami acquired them through a settlement. Both clubs confirmed the agreement but said the details would only be released after the investigation concludes.
“LA Galaxy and Inter Miami CF have reached a settlement for the discovery priority to sign Casemiro, and the terms will be released upon conclusion of the tampering investigation currently open with Major League Soccer,” Galaxy said.
Casemiro ended his Manchester United career after 160 appearances, scoring 26 goals and providing 14 assists. He also won the FA Cup and EFL Cup. Before joining United in 2022, he won five UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham welcomed the signing, describing Casemiro as a proven winner. The Brazilian will now join stars including Lionel Messi, Rodrigo de Paul, and Sergio Reguilon in Miami.
This is not the first time Inter Miami has faced scrutiny over transfer dealings. In 2021, the club was fined $2 million for breaching MLS roster rules following the signing of French midfielder Blaise Matuidi.
