Rodrigo De Paul Joins Inter Miami to Boost Messi-led Team

Fort Lauderdale (Florida), July 17 (AP) — The South Florida soccer scene is getting another boost, as Rodrigo De Paul, a close associate of Lionel Messi, is set to join Inter Miami. This information comes from a source familiar with the negotiations, speaking to The Associated Press.

The Argentine midfielder, 31, will be leaving Atlético Madrid — where he has been since 2021 — to join Major League Soccer's Inter Miami. The deal is on a short-term basis, with the potential for a multiyear contract. De Paul has a year remaining on his contract with Atlético Madrid. The agreement was first reported by ESPN.

De Paul and his national team colleague Messi aim to further elevate Inter Miami, which has seen remarkable success since Messi's 2023 arrival. The Herons have advanced to the knockout stage of the Club World Cup and have triumphed in their last five MLS matches as they pursue a second consecutive Supporters' Shield.

The timing of De Paul's debut in Inter Miami's uniform is still uncertain, but there is the possibility of his participation in the upcoming Leagues Cup later this month, said the source. The individual spoke anonymously since the signing hasn't been officially announced.

This move comes while Inter Miami is still engaged in discussions with Messi regarding a contract extension. The nine-time Ballon d'Or winner's current deal concludes in December, with expectations of his return for at least another season.

De Paul's signing brings another experienced talent to the roster, complementing the existing chemistry with Messi alongside veterans Sergio Busquets, 37, Luis Suarez, 38, and Jordi Alba, 36. These players are Miami's Designated Players, carrying salaries above the league maximum. Jordi Alba has committed to staying with Inter Miami through the 2027 season with a contract extension. Busquets, on the other hand, is yet to renew his contract, which ends this season. If Busquets does not return, it could open a spot for De Paul to possibly become one of Miami's three Designated Players in the future.

Since joining Atlético Madrid in 2021 from Udinese, De Paul has been a pivotal figure at the Spanish club. He played a crucial role in Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory as well as securing Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024.

Inter Miami and Messi are coming off a record-breaking 2024 season, achieving the highest record and winning percentage in MLS history, albeit with an early exit from the playoffs. AP KHS KHS

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