Inter Miami Closing in on Rodrigo De Paul Signing

Inter Miami are close to signing Rodrigo De Paul from Atlético Madrid. The MLS team is working fast to secure the midfielder, who is a key addition for the busy season and the 2026 World Cup in North America.

According to a previous report, Inter Miami is close to signing Rodrigo De Paul from Atlético Madrid.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Inter Miami and Atlético Madrid are close to agreeing on the transfer of Rodrigo De Paul. The 31-year-old Argentine, who has been a key player for Atlético, is about to join Lionel Messi in Miami. Although Atlético coach Diego Simeone didn’t want to lose De Paul, the Spanish club is ready to sell because De Paul isn’t extending his contract. Reports say De Paul has accepted Miami’s offer, making his move to MLS likely.

It’s reported that Atlético Madrid wants approximately 20 million euros for Rodrigo De Paul.

WHY THIS TRANSFER MATTERS

Rodrigo De Paul’s signing is a big boost for Inter Miami, both on and off the field. He is known for his strong support of Messi during Argentina’s World Cup victory, earning him the nickname “Messi’s bodyguard.” Inter Miami are competing for an MLS playoff spot and hope De Paul can strengthen their midfield. This signing could also affect Messi’s future at the club. The team needs to fix their Designated Player slots, which could mean Busquets, Alba, or even Messi might have to make way for De Paul’s arrival.

Inter Miami currently occupies all three Designated Player spots with Messi, Busquets, and Jordi Alba, which they will need to address following De Paul’s arrival.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

The final details of the transfer are being worked out, with both clubs eager to finish the deal quickly. Inter Miami need to resolve their Designated Player issue, as the league only allows three per team. Miami’s next match is against Orlando City, as they fight to stay above the playoff line in the Eastern Conference.

As of now, Inter Miami are currently sixth in the Eastern Conference, ten points behind leaders FC Cincinnati.

Atlético Madrid, meanwhile, are preparing for La Liga without one of their reliable midfielders and must consider reinforcements. Once everything is finalized, De Paul could debut in MLS soon, helping Miami climb the standings and convincing Messi to stay another year.