Center-back Tomas Aviles has joined the Herons from Racing Club of Argentina, marking Inter Miami’s sixth summer transfer window signing.

For Inter Miami, new hires keep flowing in. The Herons have reinforced their backline for the future with the arrival of Aviles, proving that having a certain Lionel Messi at the club works wonders for recruiting.

Prior to earlier this year, the 19-year-old had played for Chile’s U20 national team and Racing in addition to making 20 appearances for Racing in 2023. Aviles will occupy one of Miami’s U22 Initiative & international roster spots thanks to a contract he signed that runs through the 2026 MLS season with options for the following two.

Chris Henderson, chief soccer officer, and sporting director, said: “We’re very happy to sign Tomas, a prospect we feel has a very bright future ahead of him.” “Tomas is a young player with talent who will help us strengthen our backline.”

I’m looking forward to representing Inter Miami in this great opportunity, stated Aviles. “I will sacrifice everything for this Club and do everything in my power to help us achieve our goals.”

Given Aviles’ youth, it is unclear what kind of position he will hold once joining Miami. To ease him into MLS, head coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino would want to give him sporadic playing time, or he might want to loan him out to gain rapid experience.

On August 2, at DRV PNK Stadium, the Herons and Messi will play Orlando City in the round of 32 of the 2023 Leagues Cup.