Inter Miami has finally completed the signing of defender Gonzalo Lujan from Argentinian side San Lorenzo.
Javier Mascherano has been chasing Lujan for some time and the club has now confirmed his signature after previously agreeing an $800,000 deal.
The 23-year-old has signed a deal which runs through the 2027 MLS season, with a club option for the 2028 season.
The Herons have been desperate to get some defensive cover before their preseason begins and the versatile Lujan is the perfect addition.
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Gonzalo Lujan Key Facts
- Age: 23
- Birthplace: Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Nationality: Argentina
- Former clubs: San Lorenzo
- Positions: Right-back, Centre-back, Right-midfield
Lujan says goodbye to San Lorenzo where he ‘fulfilled his dream’
Inter Miami manager Mascherano will be less ‘worried’ about the club’s signings having secured the services of Lujan.
His ability to play in multiple positions will be priceless for the Herons who are still a little short of bodies going into their pre-season.
Lujan will join up with international teammate Lionel Messi who is currently in contract negotiations with Inter Miami over a new deal.
Following his departure from San Lorenzo, who he has played with since the age of nine, Lujan took to social media to thank the club and fans, saying: “Today closes a very important chapter in my life. I arrived at only 9 years old at the Club where I grew up, that trained me as a player and where I could fulfil my dream of playing in the Premier League. I walk away with pride that I defended this shirt with all my heart.
“I am deeply grateful to my teammates, coaches and staff who were with me at every stage, and to the fans who supported me when I needed it most.
“¡Muchas gracias, San Lorenzo! My love for this Club will be eternal.”
Lujan provides challenge for places
It is unlikely that Lujan will be thrown straight into action for Inter Miami against Club America but will be available for the rest of the pre-season.
Lujan’s versatility allows him to play in almost any role along the back four and will provide a challenge to Marcelo Weigandt and Inter Miami’s center-backs.
Inter Miami agreed a deal for Colo-Colo defender Maxi Falcon, showing the sides real drive to bring in some solid defensive cover.
Lujan and Falcon will be looking to build a solid partnership at the back for the Herons during pre-season, something they can then take into Inter Miami’s first game against New York City FC.
While Lujan may not be the most attacking of defenders, having scored no goals in his 97-game career so far, he will provide pace and composure on the ball at the back.