Atletico Madrid has set a €15 million asking price for midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, following Inter Miami’s interest led by Lionel Messi in acquiring the Argentine player. With the MLS club seeking to bolster their squad after reaching the last-16 of the FIFA Club World Cup, they have formally approached Atletico Madrid regarding a possible transfer.
Journalists Marcos Benito and Marcos Duran reported that Inter Miami is determined to sign De Paul this summer to strengthen their team’s depth, which was a notable weakness during the Club World Cup run. Atletico Madrid is keen to secure compensation for De Paul instead of losing him without a transfer fee.
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami delivered a promising performance in the recent FIFA tournament, though the team’s lack of squad depth hindered their progress. Manager Javier Mascherano had requested reinforcements before the competition, but the club’s roster was not significantly strengthened, prompting moves now to address this shortfall.
Rodrigo De Paul remains contracted to Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano until 2026 but appears reluctant to extend his stay. Diego Simeone, Atletico’s manager, values De Paul as a crucial midfielder and understands replacing him would come at a significant cost. However, the prospect of joining Inter Miami, influenced by Messi’s presence and the strong Argentine contingent at the club, makes the move appealing for De Paul.
The 31-year-old’s experience and skill set are expected to offer a new dimension to Inter Miami’s lineup, reinforcing the squad under Mascherano’s leadership in Major League Soccer.
Rodrigo De Paul’s defense of Lionel Messi amid Cristiano Ronaldo’s claims
Rodrigo De Paul, a key figure at Atletico Madrid and outspoken supporter of Lionel Messi, publicly backed Messi during the ongoing debate comparing the Argentine star with Cristiano Ronaldo. Earlier this year, De Paul responded to Ronaldo’s assertion that he is the most complete footballer, clarifying his views on Messi’s unique impact.
In an interview with Pollo Alvarez, De Paul emphasized that Messi’s legacy goes beyond conventional measures such as titles and statistics. He highlighted the emotional connection and artistry Messi brings to the sport, setting him apart from others.
“I guess I have to say this from a politically correct place because I don’t want any trouble, but I feel like anyone who has watched a bit of soccer or understands even a little knows that there will never be another like Messi.” —Rodrigo De Paul, Atletico Madrid midfielder
“What he did, what he achieved, and most importantly what he created in people’s hearts. We will not talk about titles or achievements because what he did makes people pay anything just to see him, to see how he dribbles a player and how he makes an assist. Leo is an art. Cristiano is a beast in terms of competitiveness and an exceptional scorer. But Leo is the art.” —Rodrigo De Paul, Atletico Madrid midfielder
The long-standing debate over the greatest footballer between Ronaldo and Messi continues to ignite discussion among fans and players alike. De Paul’s remarks underscore the deep respect Messi commands across the football community.
The strategic importance of De Paul’s potential MLS move
Inter Miami’s ambitions in the MLS and other competitions are clearly reflected in their pursuit of Rodrigo De Paul. The club’s performance at the FIFA Club World Cup exposed shortcomings in squad depth that could hinder future success. Adding an experienced midfielder like De Paul would address this issue and enhance the team’s tactical versatility.
Atletico Madrid’s firm stance on the transfer fee indicates they value De Paul highly, given his contract situation and importance to the squad. The Spanish club faces the challenge of negotiating terms that satisfy both parties, with De Paul’s preference for a move to MLS influenced by the presence of Lionel Messi and fellow Argentines at Inter Miami.
This potential transfer carries broader implications for MLS’s growing appeal to international stars and Argentine players seeking new challenges outside Europe. If completed, it would represent a significant coup for Inter Miami, reinforcing their status as a competitive destination in the global football landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi a billionaire?
A. Lionel Messi has a net worth of $1.15 billion, a high-paying contract with Inter Miami, and several endorsement deals. These make him one of the richest and most influential sports figures globally. His luxurious life includes property investments, fancy cars, and a private jet.