Inter Miami's Transfer Pursuit: From Denis Bouanga to Germán Berterame
Inter Miami's pursuit of LAFC's Denis Bouanga for $13 million was unsuccessful, leading them to secure Germán Berterame from Monterrey. Learn more about the shift in focus and the club's winter rebuild plans.
Inter Miami’s pursuit of Monterrey striker Germán Berterame followed an unsuccessful $13 million bid for LAFC star Denis Bouanga, according to The Athletic. The Herons’ cash offer for the Gabon international was turned down by Los Angeles, prompting a swift pivot in their winter rebuild. According to the same report, Bouanga wants to extend his contract with his current club. Inter Miami have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Mexico international forward Germán Berterame from CF Monterrey, according to the Athletic. The deal is valued at approximately $15 million, placing Berterame among the 10 most expensive acquisitions in MLS history once finalized.Before closing in on Berterame, Miami explored several high-profile attacking options. One of the most ambitious moves came in the form of a $13 million bid for LAFC star Denis Bouanga. LAFC swiftly rejected the offer, making it clear the Gabonese forward is not for sale as he remains under contract through 2027, with a club option for 2028. The same outlet reports Bouanga is aiming to extend his contract.Bouanga, widely regarded as one of MLS’s elite attackers, has scored at least 20 regular-season goals in each of the last three campaigns. However, with LAFC unwilling to negotiate, Miami shifted their focus back to Liga MX.Berterame, 27, has been one of Monterrey’s most reliable attacking weapons since joining the club in 2022. He has registered 68 goals and 15 assists for Rayados, including a standout 2025 season with 27 goals across all competitions and three more at the FIFA Club World Cup. His form has carried into the Clausura 2026, where he has already scored twice in Monterrey’s opening three matches.The signing is part of a broader transition for Inter Miami as the club moves from its initial era with Lionel Messi into a new phase. The retirements of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba opened two Designated Player slots, one of which was used to make Rodrigo De Paul’s loan permanent in a deal worth around $17 million. Berterame is expected to occupy the third DP spot.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingMiami’s winter business has also included the arrivals of MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair, winger Tadeo Allende on a permanent deal, Brazilian center back Micael on loan, midfielder David Ayala via trade, and free-agent signings Sergio Reguilón and Facundo Mura - underscoring the club’s intent to remain a contender on all fronts.
The Initial Pursuit of Denis Bouanga
Inter Miami's initial pursuit of transferring in Denis Bouanga for a reported $13 million bid from LAFC was met with a rejection, as the Gabon international expressed intentions to extend his contract with his current club. Despite Bouanga's track record as an elite attacker in MLS, LAFC stood firm on retaining him, prompting Miami to explore other options.
Germán Berterame's Signing
Subsequently, Inter Miami focused on acquiring Germán Berterame from CF Monterrey in a deal valued at approximately $15 million. Berterame, known for his attacking prowess and performances with Monterrey, is set to become one of the club's most expensive acquisitions in MLS history upon finalizing the deal. His inclusion is seen as a significant move in Miami's transition following a period marked by significant player changes.
Berterame's Impact and Miami's Winter Business
With Berterame's proven goal-scoring abilities and prior success in Liga MX, Inter Miami anticipates his seamless integration into the squad. The signing aligns with the club's broader strategy, which includes acquiring top talent like Rodrigo De Paul and strengthening various positions to maintain competitiveness across competitions. The recent additions of key players like Dayne St. Clair, Tadeo Allende, and others underscore Miami's commitment to remaining a force in MLS.
