Inter Miami is poised for a significant off-season under new manager Javier Mascherano, with various superstar players being linked to a move to Florida.

Angel Di Maria has resurfaced as a target for Inter Miami, alongside Brazil’s Neymar, who recently bought a $26 million property in Florida. Mohamed Salah is also on their radar, increasing the likelihood of a high-profile player joining Lionel Messi and the team at Chase Stadium this winter, as Mascherano looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the 2025 MLS season.

One player linked to Inter Miami, Nicolas Otamendi, has a close connection to Messi. The Argentina international, who is a current teammate of Messi’s on the national team, has been rumored to be moving to Miami. Otamendi not only played on the Argentina squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup but also has a tattoo of Messi holding the trophy after their victory over France.

With Otamendi set to become a free agent next summer, he could be an ideal acquisition for Inter Miami if he is open to an MLS move. Given his tattoo of Messi, there’s a strong chance the 36-year-old would be persuaded to join the Herons, especially as they seek a top-class central defender.

Inter Miami had no trouble scoring goals this season, setting a new record while winning the Supporters’ Shield and achieving a record points tally. However, fans have pointed to defensive issues as a primary concern. Signing Otamendi could address these problems immediately, given his experience and quality at the highest level.

As a former teammate of Mascherano and a friend of Messi, Otamendi fits the profile Inter Miami is looking for in a center-back. His potential availability for free, depending on his contract situation at Benfica, makes him an attractive target for the club next month.