Inter Miami wants to sign Rodrigo De Paul to convince Lionel Messi to stay in MLS

In Miami, they know the key to keeping Messi is making him feel at home. After surrounding him with old Barça friends, the club now has its eyes on his most loyal ally with Argentina: Rodrigo De Paul. Will they reunite in Florida?

Inter Miami is ready to make bold moves to keep Lionel Messi in MLS beyond 2024. After reuniting him with former Barcelona teammates like Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, and appointing Javier Mascherano as head coach, David Beckham’s club wants to go one step further: signing Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s inseparable midfield partner with Argentina.

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, talks have already begun with Atlético de Madrid, where De Paul is under contract until June 2026. The 2022 World Cup champion is reportedly open to a move to MLS during this summer window.

The plan to keep Messi

Context matters. After a 0-4 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup, Inter Miami is looking to reload and convince their superstar to stay past December, when his contract expires. De Paul wouldn’t just bring quality to the midfield—he’d bring emotional support. He’s the player who’s protected and stood by Messi on and off the pitch.

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And at a time when Saudi Arabia is once again making a push for the Argentine—this time with Al-Ahli reportedly interested—having his “bodyguard” nearby could be a game-changer for Miami.