Inter Miami is reportedly in discussions with Atletico Madrid regarding a potential transfer for Argentine midfielder Rodrigo de Paul, as stated by football insider Fabrizio Romano on Monday. De Paul, who is 31 years old, is in the last year of his contract. If he and Atletico cannot reach an extension soon, the club may consider facilitating a transfer, although there is some internal contention at Atletico—manager Diego Simeone prefers to retain de Paul for another year.
De Paul has been one of LaLiga’s standout midfielders, finishing his fourth season at Atletico Madrid and earning a spot on the 2024-25 La Liga team of the season. Throughout this season, he netted three goals across 53 appearances, bringing his total to 14 goals in 187 matches for the club.
Internationally, De Paul has made his mark with Argentina, featuring prominently in the team’s recent successes, including their victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Copa America. He has two goals in his 78 caps for the national team.
For Inter Miami to acquire De Paul, they would likely need to free up a designated player slot, as current spots are filled by Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. With Busquets turning 37 in July, CBS Sports suggests that he may be the most likely candidate to vacate a spot. De Paul would bring further connections to Messi, having joined the MLS club along with other Argentine players like Alba and Luis Suarez.
After winning the Supporters Shield in their inaugural season with Messi, Inter Miami aims to improve on last year’s playoff performance, where they exited in the first round. Currently, they sit sixth in the Eastern Conference, trailing league leaders FC Cincinnati by 10 points, and were also knocked out in the FIFA Club World Cup’s round of 16.
Fan Take: This potential move is significant for soccer fans, as Rodrigo de Paul’s arrival would bolster Inter Miami’s midfield and deepen the connection with Lionel Messi. It could enhance the club’s competitiveness and influence the growing landscape of American soccer, providing more excitement for MLS fans.
