Inter Miami Secures Berterame After Failed Bouanga Bid

Inter Miami Secures Berterame After Failed Bouanga Bid

Arthur Jones
Arthur Jones
Published: Jan 22, 2026

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 has reportedly finalized a deal to sign Mexican international forward Germán Berterame from CF Monterrey for approximately $15 million. This substantial acquisition places Berterame among the most expensive signings in MLS history, marking a pivotal moment in Miami's off-season rebuild.

Before securing Berterame, Miami made a significant $13 million bid for LAFC's dynamic forward, Denis Bouanga. However, LAFC swiftly rejected the offer, unequivocally stating that Bouanga, who is under contract through 2027 with a club option for 2028 and reportedly seeking an extension, was not for sale. This rejection forced Miami to re-evaluate its transfer targets.

Bouanga, a consistent top scorer in MLS with over 20 regular-season goals in each of the last three campaigns, proved unattainable. Inter Miami then turned their focus to Liga MX, where Germán Berterame, 27, has been a prolific force for Monterrey since 2022. During his tenure, he has accumulated an impressive 68 goals and 15 assists. His standout 2025 season saw him net 27 goals across all competitions, including three at the FIFA Club World Cup, and he has continued his strong form into the Clausura 2026 with two goals in Monterrey's initial three matches.

This signing is integral to Inter Miami's strategic evolution following the departures of key figures like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, which freed up two Designated Player slots. One of these was utilized to make Rodrigo De Paul's loan permanent in a deal valued around $17 million. Berterame is now expected to occupy the third Designated Player spot, completing a crucial part of the team's retooling.

Miami's aggressive winter transfer window also includes the additions 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 full-backs Sergio Reguilón and Facundo Mura. These moves underscore the club's determination to maintain a competitive edge across all competitions.