InterMiami CF made two new signings before 2025 MLS campaign, adding defender Gonzalo Lujan and goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo to the squad.
Lujan arrives at Inter Miami from top-flight Argentine side San Lorenzo and joins the Herons on a contract through the 2027 MLS season with an additional option for 2028.
The defender adds much-needed depth to the team as he can play as a center and full-back. He also spent time with Inter Miami’s new coach while playing for Argentina’s under-23 team at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
“Bringing in a young and versatile defender like Gonzalo Luján will be important in the upcoming 2025 season,” said President of Football Operations Raúl Sanllehí. “He brings quality to our first-team squad and strengthens our defensive unit, and his versatility will be a valuable asset as he can play in several positions in the defensive line.”
Novo joins from Argentine club Atlético Lanús on a one-year loan until the 2025 season with an option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the 12-month period. He joins the Inter Miami goalkeepers Oskar Ustari AND Drake Callender fight for the main role.
Novo, who was born in Los Angeles and had the opportunity to represent Mexico, United States or Argentina, where he played Albiceleste at youth level.
During this time, Miami’s new goalkeeper spent time with head coach Javier Mascherano and joined his squad for the 2024 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic tournament.
“The involvement of a young, emerging goalkeeper like Ríos Novo helps to enhance our competitive goalkeeping department,” said president of soccer operations Raúl Sanllehí. His signing strengthens our squad as we prepare for an exciting 2025 season that will see us compete in several competitions both domestically and abroad.”
The South Florida team made several moves in the offseason, adding experience to the team through signings Fafa Picault AND Tadeusz Allende while letting go Matias Rojas and C.J. Dos Santos.
The team will begin the 2025 preseason with a friendly against Club America on January 18 in Las Vegas, before embarking on a tour of South and Central America that includes matches against Peru AND Panama.
Later on Thursday, Callender became the fourth player removed from the squad for Saturday’s friendly match between the United States and Venezuela. The United States Soccer Federation reported that he suffered minor muscle problems and returned to Miami for evaluation and treatment.
