Lionel Messi has another new teammate! Inter Miami sign Argentine defender Nicolas Freire from Liga MX side Pumas UNAM ahead of 2024 MLS season

The Herons announced they are bolstering their back line with the addition of the central defender Tuesday morning, just hours after their 1-0 loss to FC Dallas in an MLS preseason friendly. The Liga MX centerback is set to immediately join the club and travel with them for their upcoming preseason matches.

“Nicolás offers us a sturdy defensive presence who we know will work hard and help command the backline,” said Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Chris Henderson. “He’s been successful in several high-quality competitions throughout his career, and we’re excited to bring him onboard to help us compete for titles in 2024. We believe his experience will be an asset for us.”

“I’m really proud to take this step in my career and play for a great club like Inter Miami,” said Freire. “I’m looking forward to joining the group and dedicating myself to working hard here. This is an ambitious club that dreams big and I’m excited to help us compete for titles.”

The Herons lost central defender Kamal Miller via trade to the Portland Thorns earlier this offseason, and were then snubbed by ex-Man Utd defender Marcos Rojo in their search for a replacement. Now, they've officially landed their replacement for Miller in Freire. He will immediately compete for minutes in the XI, especially considering Tata Martino's five-defender system.

The Herons are currently on a World Tour for their 2024 MLS preseason, and their next stop is Saudi Arabia. They're set to compete in the Riyadh Cup against Al Hilal and Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in just over a week's time. For Freire, it's now about integrating into the club and Martino's system, with hopes of making his debut against Aleksandar Mitrovic and co.