Inter Miami are advancing in negotiations to secure the signature of Atlético Madrid midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, with the Argentine international reportedly accepting the MLS club’s proposal to reunite with compatriot Lionel Messi. The potential transfer, which could cost approximately €15 million, is one of the most biggest moves in Major League Soccer history and signals Miami’s continued ambition to attract world-class talent.
Inter Miami is holding talks with Atlético Madrid to sign Rodrigo De Paul, sources confirmed with ESPN. Co-owner Jorge Mas traveled to Madrid to initiate negotiations between the two parties in order to bring the Argentine midfielder to the MLS club. The direct involvement of Miami’s ownership in the negotiations underscores the strategic importance of this potential addition.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has provided crucial updates on the developing situation, confirming that Inter Miami have initiated talks with La Liga side Atlético Madrid to sign Rodrigo de Paul, who is open a move to the MLS. The player’s willingness to consider the move represents a significant breakthrough in negotiations.
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Player Acceptance and Messi Connection
Recent reports suggest that De Paul has accepted the Herons’ proposal. The 30-year-old midfielder’s enthusiasm for the move appears to be driven by the opportunity to play alongside his national team captain and close friend Lionel Messi. The Argentine is excited about such an offer, as he would like to play together in the same team with his compatriot Lionel Messi.
The relationship between De Paul and Messi extends beyond professional football, with Signing De Paul would be a clear sign that Messi is staying as the midfielder is a close friend of the 38-year-old. Supporters have joked that the Atleti star would be Messi’s new ‘bodyguard’ as his actual bodyguard, Yassine Cheuko, is no longer allowed to be pitchside at MLS games.
Financial Framework and Valuation
The transfer negotiations have centered around a fee structure that would be a value for Inter Miami. Atlético is reportedly seeking just over $17 million, though Mundo Deportivo suggests the amount could be lower. Alternative reports indicate that selling De Paul for a little less than €15 million is being discussed between the parties.
A potential deal for De Paul would be one of the biggest inbound fees in MLS history. The current league record is Atlanta’s deal to sign Emmanuel Latte Lath this winter at $22 million, with the second-biggest inbound transfer being the $16.2 million FC Cincinnati paid to sign Kevin Denkey.
Designated Player Slot Complications
The transfer faces a big structural challenge regarding MLS roster regulations. Miami would need to release one of their Designated Player slots to accommodate De Paul, as those slots are currently filled by Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. This requirement has created speculation about potential roster adjustments to facilitate the signing.
The Designated Player slot limitation is a crucial hurdle that Inter Miami must resolve before completing the transfer, potentially requiring difficult decisions about their current high-profile players.
Diego Simeone’s Resistance
The negotiations have encountered resistance from Atlético Madrid’s coaching staff, with Head coach Diego Simeone reportedly unwilling to let De Paul leave without a substantial transfer fee, complicating matters further for Inter Miami. Simeone’s position reflects De Paul’s importance to Atlético’s tactical system and the coach’s reluctance to lose a key player.
Atlético Madrid want to sell Rodrigo De Paul to Inter Miami, overruling Diego Simeone in the process, suggesting internal club dynamics may influence the final decision regarding the transfer.
Strategic Timing and Contract Situation
The timing of the transfer discussions is strategically important, with The 31-year-old entering the final 12 months of his contract at Atlético Madrid. This contractual situation provides Inter Miami with leverage in negotiations while creating urgency for Atlético to secure a transfer fee rather than risk losing the player on a free transfer.
Not long ago, the player was considering extending his contract, but he’s now seriously contemplating saying “yes” to Inter Miami to play alongside Messi. This shift in the player’s mindset represents a crucial development in the transfer saga.
Recent Developments and Progress
The negotiations have reportedly accelerated in recent days, with Rodrigo De Paul edging closer to teaming up with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, with the MLS club and Atlético Madrid reportedly progressing in transfer negotiations. The momentum suggests that a resolution could be reached in the coming weeks.
Inter Miami’s proactive approach, including high-level meetings in Madrid, shows their commitment to securing the transfer and their willingness to invest significantly in attracting world-class talent to MLS.
Market Impact and Historical Context
The potential signing of De Paul would be a paradigm shift for MLS transfers, bringing a player at the peak of his powers from one of Europe’s top leagues. World Cup winner De Paul has been an integral part of the national team during their dominant cycle, and has been a regular contributor to Argentina’s success.
The transfer would also set new precedents for MLS in terms of attracting prime-age international stars, potentially influencing future transfer strategies across the league.
Tactical Implications for Inter Miami
De Paul’s potential arrival would significantly strengthen Inter Miami’s midfield options, providing experience, creativity, and international pedigree. His versatility and ability to contribute in multiple phases of play would complement the existing squad structure while adding depth to their roster.
The midfielder’s experience in high-pressure situations and major tournaments would prove invaluable as Inter Miami continue their pursuit of domestic and international success.
The successful completion of this transfer would not only reunite De Paul with Messi but also shows Inter Miami’s continued commitment to attracting world-class talent to Major League Soccer.
