Whispers filled the summer air that Rodrigo de Paul, the Argentine midfield maestro currently at Atlético Madrid, could soon be starring alongside long-time compatriot Lionel Messi in Miami. Over the past few days, reports have grown louder—and more intriguing—suggesting deepening talks between the clubs, and palpable interest from the player himself.
Talks Begin in Madrid
Today, sources confirmed to ESPN that Inter Miami’s co-owner Jorge Mas traveled to Madrid to initiate discussions with Atlético over signing de Paul. Having one year left on his contract, with no extension in sight, de Paul is reportedly open to the switch to MLS .
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano and Transfermarkt report that de Paul is keen to play alongside Messi again—reigniting their chemistry from Argentina’s national team. The idea of rejoining “his friend and World Cup peer” in South Florida appears to appeal deeply to him().
Inter Miami faces challenges fitting de Paul into their Designated Player quota, which today includes Messi, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets. With Alba already under contract until 2027, at least one DP spot must become available—potentially when Messi or Busquets’ contracts expire in December .
Atlético values de Paul at around €15 million, though Miami is reportedly pushing closer to €12 million, hoping to finalize a deal this transfer window rather than waiting until he leaves free next summer .
Manager Diego Simeone regards de Paul as a key midfielder but Atlético may be willing to sell if no contract extension is reached. They’ve already lined up Javi Guerra from Valencia as a potential replacement .
A post from r/soccer quotes Fabrizio Romano on Reddit:
“Inter Miami have now started talks with Atlético Madrid for Rodrigo de Paul deal! Inter Miami want to keep its ambitions high… told Rodrigo’s open to the move.”
Fans are already buzzing—many see Miami assembling a “dream Argentine core,” and De Paul is central to that vision.
What Comes Next?
Contract hurdles: Miami needs a DoP slot freed, likely once Messi or Busquets depart or renew under different terms.
Fee negotiations: Can Miami bridge the €3 million gap between their offer and Atlético’s asking price?
Player decision: De Paul seems open but will weigh MLS ambition, World Cup readiness, and his role in Miami’s midfield.
If this saga reaches a happy conclusion, it will mark yet another statement transfer for Inter Miami—continuing their ambitious roster build around Messi, with Beckham, Mas, and Mascherano steering a bold MLS-era project.
🎯 Final Outlook
In short: rumors are intensifying—with official talks confirmed, player interest high, and deal breakers clear. It’s a captivating storyline: a top-tier Argentine midfielder possibly moving to Miami, reinvigorating a friendship and adding serious quality to an evolving MLS giant.
Let me know if you’d like me to track updates or break down more about how Miami could shuffle its roster to make room!
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