FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Inter Miami continues to build around Lionel Messi, and now another of his longtime Argentina teammates is set to join the squad. Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has agreed to terms with the club on a short-term loan deal from Atlético Madrid, with the potential for a permanent move, a person familiar with the negotiations told the Associated Press on Wednesday. Along with the news becoming officially confirmed by transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano.
The 31-year-old De Paul leaves Atlético Madrid with one year remaining on his contract and is expected to officially arrive in South Florida in the coming weeks. ESPN first reported the deal, which has been in progress for several weeks. While his exact arrival date is not yet confirmed, he could be in uniform ahead of Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup opener on July 30.
De Paul will not immediately occupy a Designated Player (DP) spot, with those currently filled by Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. However, with Busquets’ contract expiring at the end of the season and no renewal talks underway, a potential DP slot could open for De Paul in 2025. Alba recently extended his deal through 2027.
The move brings another familiar face into the Inter Miami locker room, as the club continues its strategy of surrounding Messi with players he trusts and has chemistry with. De Paul played a key role alongside Messi in Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup victory, as well as their Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.
He joined Atlético Madrid in 2021 after a standout spell in Italy with Udinese, and made 187 appearances for the Spanish side, contributing 14 goals and 26 assists. Known for his tenacity, vision, and ability to cover ground, De Paul adds quality and depth to an Inter Miami midfield that has already helped the club achieve unprecedented success.
Since Messi’s arrival in 2023, Inter Miami has transformed into one of the league’s most dynamic teams. They recently advanced to the knockout round of the FIFA Club World Cup, ultimately falling to Messi’s former team Paris Saint-Germain in the Round of 16. In MLS play, they are on a five-game winning streak and remain top contenders for a second consecutive Supporters’ Shield.
Messi, whose contract expires in December, is currently in negotiations with the club on an extension. Sources say both sides are optimistic about continuing the relationship beyond 2025.
De Paul’s signing is another statement of intent from Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas, who personally traveled to Madrid to initiate talks. With a growing list of international stars and a clear ambition to dominate both domestically and globally, Inter Miami continues to reshape the landscape of MLS.
Cover Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano on X)
