Inter Miami CF has officially signed goalkeepers Rocco Rios Novo and Luis Balassa to permanent contracts following the parting of veteran Oscar Ustari. Rios Novo, who joined the team on loan last season, played a pivotal role in the club’s 2025 season, starting in the MLS Cup final. Over the postseason, he played every match and secured two clean sheets. In total, he has appeared in 19 games this season, recording five shutouts, and he is set to support 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, Dane St. Clair.
Balassa, 29, arrives at Inter Miami after a season with DC United where he appeared in 24 matches with four clean sheets. His background in MLS, USL Championship, and MLS NEXT Pro brings valuable experience to the squad, especially after winning the MLS Cup in 2021 and the Campeones Cup in 2022.
As for Oscar Ustari, while an official announcement has yet to be released, reports indicate that the 39-year-old goalkeeper will soon be leaving the club. He did not participate in recent training sessions in Fort Lauderdale and has been omitted from the lineup for an upcoming friendly against Alianza Lima in Peru.
In addition, CF Montreal has secured Argentine center-back Tomás Avilés on loan from Inter Miami, with an option to buy included in the deal. This move meets the requirements of both teams; Montreal gains a promising 21-year-old defender, while Avilés will have a chance for more consistent playing time. This transition also addresses Miami’s roster challenges, particularly as one player from their U-22 initiative was required to transfer this winter.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer enthusiasts as it highlights the dynamic shifts in team rosters that often define a club’s season. The strategic moves—bringing in young talent while parting with seasoned players—could reshape the competitive landscape of MLS and provide fresh narratives for fans to follow.
