Inter Miami Seal Stunning Deal for Atlético Star Rodrigo De Paul

Inter Miami have secured a landmark loan deal for Atlético Madrid midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, with the Argentine World Cup winner set to reunite with close friend Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer.

The 31-year-old will join initially on a short-term contract with a $17 million purchase option, allowing Miami to bypass Designated Player roster constraints until Sergio Busquets’ potential departure in December. De Paul, who recorded 10 assists for Atlético last season, accepted reduced terms for the move—a decision influenced by Messi’s presence and the 2026 North American World Cup horizon. The deal marks a strategic shift for David Beckham’s franchise, adding elite midfield grit to complement their star-studded attack ahead of the Leagues Cup later this month.

Despite Diego Simeone’s public resistance to losing his “unofficial Messi bodyguard,” Atlético sanctioned the transfer as De Paul entered the final year of his contract. The Spanish club will receive €15 million if Miami triggers the permanent clause, a significant discount from his €35 million 2021 transfer fee, while freeing up wages for Valencia’s Javi Guerra as a replacement. For Inter Miami, the acquisition serves dual purposes: bolstering midfield stability and strengthening their pitch to extend Messi’s contract beyond 2025. De Paul could debut as early as July 30 against Atlas, adding another chapter to Miami’s ambitious project that now features five South American veterans.

Sources: ESPN, The Athletic, Fabrizio Romano, Marca.