Inter Miami have formally announced to have signed a Canadian international goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, and this is considered one of the biggest free-agent pick-ups of the 2026 winter transfer window in MLS.
The agreement follows the club seeking to establish on one of the most successful periods in its history in 2025 with Lionel Messi and a club that won the MLS Cup and an MVP season with the Argentine superstar. St. Clair is one of the most desired free agents and this makes him join the Herons following the expiry of his contract with Minnesota United. Even with a reportedly more than a million dollars a year contract extension on his hands, the goalkeeper chose a new challenge.
The long-term sporting vision that the city of Miami has centered around Messi and a rising international profile was decisive in the signing of Messi. In 2025, the 28-year-old had a brilliant season and was named MLS Goalkeeper of the Month and a Best XI nominee in the league. Having St. Clair in the posts Minnesota United had recorded its best regular season in club history, with 58 points and the second-strongest defensive record in MLS. The Loons also entered the semifinals of the Western Conference in the second year. Inter Miami confirmed that St. Clair has signed an agreement until the end of the 2026 season, and also a club option until June 2027.
His entry is a response to one of the most significant roles since the club will be on the verge of domestic and international competitions, as well as increased expectations in the run-up to 2026. The relocation is also an indication of a change in the transfer strategy by Inter Miami.
The club has reacted to this frustration publicly expressed by Messi over the restrictions of his roster last season and has reacted by fortifying key areas with experienced and high-impact signings. St. Clair is the third player to be acquired by the window by Inter Miami, the other two being fullback Sergio Reguilón and Facundo Mura. Having a number of deals in progress, the Herons have given an indication that they are not yet done with their plans in the transfer market.
