In what could be one of Major League Soccer’s most eye-catching summer moves, Inter Miami are in advanced talks to sign Rodrigo De Paul from Atlético Madrid, with hopes of finalizing the deal in the coming days. The Argentine midfielder is reportedly open to the move, reuniting with his international teammate Lionel Messi in Florida—a partnership that played a crucial role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph.
As negotiations intensify, the potential transfer is shaping up to be more than just another big-name signing in MLS. It’s a strategic shift for both clubs, especially Atlético Madrid, who are undergoing a significant squad overhaul this summer.
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A Summer of Exits at Atlético Madrid
Atlético Madrid are actively reshaping their squad under manager Diego Simeone, and Rodrigo De Paul could be the next major exit. The Spanish giants have already parted ways with Ángel Correa (Tigres), Reinildo Mandava, Axel Witsel, César Azpilicueta, and Rodrigo Riquelme (Real Betis).
The motive is clear—raise funds to support new arrivals like Alex Baena and Matteo Ruggeri, whose combined transfers have cost around €60 million.
De Paul, 31, is under contract until 2025, but the club is unwilling to risk losing him for free next summer. Inter Miami’s €15 million bid, while lower than the €25 million Atlético rejected in January, could now be enough to seal the deal.
The Messi Effect & Mascherano’s Hint
De Paul’s potential move to MLS appears heavily influenced by his bond with Lionel Messi. The two formed a close friendship during Argentina’s World Cup run, and sources indicate De Paul has agreed to personal terms with Inter Miami—provided Messi stays with the club, whose current contract ends in 2025.
Adding fuel to the fire, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano, a former teammate of De Paul, commented cautiously when asked about the move after their 2-1 win over Nashville. “There’s nothing official about De Paul. I’ve also read what’s in the media. He’s a top-level player, a world champion, but I know absolutely nothing,” Mascherano said.
While careful not to violate transfer etiquette, Mascherano’s remarks suggest the interest is real—even if the paperwork isn’t yet complete.
Simeone and Atlético’s Internal Power Struggle
Rodrigo De Paul’s potential exit is also exposing a rift behind the scenes at Atlético Madrid. For the first time since Carlos Bucero took over as Director of Football 18 months ago, there’s a visible conflict between him and Diego Simeone.
While Bucero is focused on restructuring the squad for the future, Simeone sees De Paul as irreplaceable—an on-field general capable of transitioning play and injecting urgency in midfield. Despite inconsistencies, De Paul has remained a regular starter and a key orchestrator alongside Antoine Griezmann.
With veteran Koke showing signs of decline and new additions like Baena and Johnny Cardoso yet to settle, letting De Paul go may leave a gaping creative void.
Inter Miami’s Argentine Renaissance
Should the deal go through, Rodrigo De Paul would join a growing contingent of Argentine stars at Inter Miami. Alongside Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, the addition of De Paul would bolster the squad’s chemistry and competitiveness as they push for MLS glory.
For Inter Miami, this transfer represents more than a splashy signing. It’s a tactical masterstroke that strengthens their midfield and reinforces Messi’s influence on and off the pitch.
Pros & Cons of Selling Rodrigo De Paul
| Pros for Atlético Madrid | Cons for Atlético Madrid |
|---|---|
| Raises €15M in transfer revenue | Loses a starting midfielder and key playmaker |
| Avoids losing De Paul on a free next summer | Limited experienced replacements for deep-lying creativity |
| Supports squad overhaul for younger talents | Could affect squad chemistry and leadership |
| Frees up wage bill for future signings | Simeone’s hesitation to approve the move |
As Inter Miami close in on sealing the Rodrigo De Paul transfer, it could mark a major shift not just for the Florida-based club, but also for Atlético Madrid, who may lose a core piece of their midfield. With the clock ticking and negotiations in the final stages, the coming days will be pivotal.
FAQs
Is Rodrigo De Paul joining Inter Miami?
Talks are advanced, and De Paul has reportedly agreed to personal terms. However, the deal is yet to be finalized.
What is the transfer fee for Rodrigo De Paul?
The expected fee is around €15 million, down from the €25 million Atlético rejected in January.
Why does De Paul want to join Inter Miami?
The presence of Lionel Messi, his close friend and national teammate, is a major factor influencing the move.
How will Atlético Madrid replace De Paul?
They’ve already signed Alex Baena and are targeting Johnny Cardoso, but De Paul’s creativity will be hard to replace.
What has Javier Mascherano said about De Paul’s transfer?
Mascherano acknowledged media reports and praised De Paul but denied any official confirmation of the deal.
