Inter Miami is on the verge of pulling off one of the most exciting transfer moves of the MLS season as they edge closer to signing Rodrigo De Paul from Atletico Madrid. The Argentine midfielder, known for his relentless work ethic and on-field chemistry with Lionel Messi, is reportedly nearing a loan-to-buy transfer, signaling yet another ambitious leap for David Beckham’s South Florida club.
As per GiveMeSport, the deal involves a $17 million purchase clause with additional add-ons. Atletico Madrid has also triggered a one-year contract extension for De Paul, extending his deal until 2027 to smooth the terms of negotiation. If finalized, this deal would bring one of Europe’s most tenacious midfielders into the heart of Inter Miami's engine room—without disrupting their current Designated Player (DP) structure.
Lionel Messi and De Paul back together
The move isn’t just about talent—it's about rekindling chemistry. De Paul played an instrumental role in Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup victory, serving as a midfield anchor and Lionel Messi’s closest on-field protector and confidant. The two share an unbreakable bond, both professionally and personally, which appears to have played a major role in influencing the 30-year-old’s decision to consider Miami.
“De Paul won’t be considered a Designated Player this season,” the report noted, which means the club can keep Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets intact under current roster rules. De Rodrigo Paul will instead join as a Targeted Allocation Money (TAM) player, adding world-class quality without sacrificing existing stars.
Tactical masterstroke: Reinforcing the midfield
Inter Miami’s midfield is already bolstered by experienced names like Busquets and rising talents such as Benjamin Cremaschi. Yet, De Paul offers something different: high-intensity box-to-box energy, leadership, and tactical balance. Having been named to La Liga’s Team of the Season and previously serving as Udinese’s club captain, his pedigree is undeniable.
At just 31, Rodrigo De Paul remains in his prime—making him a smarter long-term acquisition than other rumored targets like Neymar or Kevin De Bruyne, both of whom come with higher injury risks. His arrival could transform the Herons into serious MLS Cup contenders, especially with Lionel Messi already delivering MVP-level performances week in and week out.
South Beach dream team coming together
With the deal nearly finalized, Inter Miami’s vision of building a world-class squad around Lionel Messi continues to materialize. The addition of Rodrigo De Paul would mark a significant moment for MLS, not only reuniting two global stars but also showing that the league can still attract top-tier talent in their peak years.
As Inter Miami prepares to face FC Cincinnati, fans will be watching closely—both for the match and for the official unveiling of what could be one of the club’s smartest signings yet.