USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso rewarded with new long-term contract at Real Betis

Betis announced on Tuesday that U.S. international Johnny Cardoso has re-upped with the club, signing a deal that will keep him tied to the Spanish side until 2030.

The new contract comes just over a year after Cardoso made the move to La Liga, joining from Internacional in Brazil during the 2024 winter transfer window. The 23-year-old midfielder has played a total of 44 matches for Betis since making the move, serving as an integral lynchpin as a defensive-minded midfielder while also providing two goals and three assists.

The American has transitioned seamlessly to La Liga, which, in turn, has generated plenty of transfer rumors. Reports indicate that Tottenham have a right of first refusal on any deal involving Cardoso, who has also been linked to the likes of Barcelona and Wolves.

"This [transfer interest] motivates me even more to continue working, evolving and seeking to achieve great goals. It has been a very special year, with a lot of learning and development. I have adapted very well here," Cardoso told Marca. "I think I have gained more experience, I have improved as an athlete both technically and tactically and I continue to evolve. I am still working to get better and better."

Cardoso is also pushing for a USMNT starting spot under Mauricio Pochettino. The midfielder has largely been a backup since making his first USMNT appearance back in 2020. He's made a total of 18 USMNT appearances, with 14 of those coming in 2023 and 2024.

For fans of American soccer, Cardoso isn't the only familiar face in the Betis squad. The club recently signed now-former Columbus Crew star Cucho Hernandez for a reported fee of $16 million plus potential additional add-ons.

Real Betis currently sit 10th in La Liga as they try to push up the table towards a European place, with that journey continuing this weekend with a visit to Celta Vigo. Meanwhile, the club is still alive in Europe this season and will face Gent in the Europa Conference League for a two-legged tie beginning on Feb. 13.