Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images

Inter Miami Sign New Midfielder to Play With Lionel Messi

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated Jan 9, 2026 11:52 AM ET

As the 2026 MLS season approaches, Inter Miami confirms another signing that will be part of the pre-season tour the team will have very soon.

Inter Miami has announced the arrival of David Ayala, a former Portland Timbers player. The 23-year-old midfielder has been in the MLS with the Portland Timbers since 2022.

Una nueva pieza para el mediocampo. Bienvenido a tu nueva casa, David

More details here: https://t.co/1LnvO8Qe7R pic.twitter.com/jY7MFDhvw5
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) January 9, 2026

Inter Miami is expected to make more signings after confirming the arrival of Sergio Reguilon, the permanent signing of Rodrigo De Paul, and now the signing of David Ayala.

David Ayala #24 of Portland Timbers leaps to kick the ball during the second half of the game against the Sporting Kansas City at Providence Park on May 10, 2025 in Portland, Oregon. The Portland Timbers won 1-0. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)

The Argentine midfielder is expected to be part of the Inter Miami roster for the pre-season tour in South America, where they will play in Peru and Ecuador.

David Ayala in the MLS

David Ayala played four seasons in the MLS with the Portland Timbers, and his best season was last year. Ayala played 37 games in the MLS last season, where he started in 36 matches.

He scored two goals and provided one assist last year. He mostly plays as a center midfielder but could also play as a defensive midfielder.

Ayala's last game for the Portland Timbers was against San Diego FC in the MLS Playoffs on November 9, 2025, where the Timbers lost 4-0 away from home. Ayala received a yellow card in the match and played for 75 minutes.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: