What once seemed like tabloid fodder is suddenly becoming very real. With Francesco Totti’s time at Roma now complete, the Italian legend is ready for a new challenge. That challenge may just come in the U.S. second division. Totti is deciding between two paths: Roma’s front office or Miami FC’s lineup.

The courtship between the NASL and Totti goes back to late 2015, when the player was seen as a potential replacement for Raúl at the New York Cosmos. However, these were quickly dismissed by the club and, given their financial struggles in 2016, it was easy to understand.

However, FiftyFive.One has learned that Miami FC is very active in its pursuit of Totti. Multiple sources within the league have confirmed that this is more serious than first believed. Another source close to the Italian confirmed to FiftyFive.One that an offer has been made for Totti. A trip for the player to South Beach would be the last remaining step.

A source from Italy clarified for FiftyFive.One that Miami FC is the only club Totti has been speaking with if he isn’t going to hang up his boots. The source still believed he has an offer from A.S. Roma to be a high-ranking executive.

When asked, the NASL did not offer official comment. However, the league official did assert that the NASL leaves its clubs to initiate and negotiate potential acquisitions. It’s believed the NASL wouldn’t alter any roster rules to try to accommodate this move.

Potential timeline

With the NASL transfer window closed until July 10, it’s unlikely Totti would join Miami during the Spring Season. However, he’d join former Italian national teammates Alessandro Nesta and Paolo Maldini in Miami for the Fall Season. Nesta is currently Miami’s head coach, while Maldini co-owns the club.

The NASL has had a few other notable examples of European superstars playing in the league. Along with Raúl, the Cosmos fielded former Spanish regular Marcos Senna. Last year, the former-NASL side Tampa Bay Rowdies signed English midfielder Joe Cole, while the Cosmos housed Niko Kranjčar.

Miami FC did not return requests for comment ahead of publication.

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