Rodrigo De Paul Joins Lionel Messi at Inter Miami in €15M Deal

Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul is set to join Inter Miami from Atlético Madrid on a loan-to-buy deal, reuniting with longtime national teammate Lionel Messi as the club continues to build a star-studded roster. The initial loan agreement includes a purchase option around $17 million, with De Paul having already agreed to a four-year contract with Inter Miami, expected to be activated during the winter transfer window. De Paul’s move allows Inter Miami to bring him in without immediately affecting their designated player slots, with the possibility of him taking over a spot once Sergio Busquets’ contract expires. De Paul has been a key player for Atlético Madrid since 2021, contributing to Argentina’s 2022 World Cup and recent Copa America victories, and he is expected to debut in the upcoming Leagues Cup. Inter Miami aims to leverage the strong chemistry between De Paul, Messi, and other former Barcelona teammates such as Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Busquets to maintain their historic successes and contend for MLS honors. The transfer marks a significant milestone for Inter Miami as they seek to finalize their roster with additional signings ahead of the season’s second half.