Rodrigo De Paul is on the verge of joining "Inter Miami" from "Atlético Madrid" in what will become a club record transfer. The Argentine midfielder has already agreed personal terms with the MLS side, committing to a four-year contract alongside his national teammate Lionel Messi.
"The opportunity to continue my career alongside Messi while taking on a new challenge in Major League Soccer was too good to pass up," De Paul might say about this career-defining move.
The deal structure is particularly interesting. "Atlético Madrid" will extend De Paul's contract until 2027 before loaning him to "Inter Miami" with a €15 million obligation to buy. Once completed, the 31-year-old midfielder, currently valued at €25 million, will become the most valuable player in MLS history and the third most expensive signing the league has ever seen.
De Paul has been a consistent performer for Diego Simeone's side, contributing three goals and ten assists in 53 appearances across all competitions last season. So why would "Atlético" let him go? Well, the Spanish club has been busy this summer, already adding Álex Baena, Johnny Cardoso, and reportedly securing terms with Thiago Almada.
For "Inter Miami" owners Jorge Mas and David Beckham, this signing represents their continued ambition following encouraging results at the FIFA Club World Cup. The club clearly recognizes they still have ground to make up compared to top European and South American sides.
Interestingly, De Paul could eventually replace Sergio Busquets, who turns 37 next month and has struggled with pace this season. The Spanish midfielder might retire after this campaign, which would free up a Designated Player spot - currently filled by Busquets, Messi, and Jordi Alba.
The transfer is expected to be finalized by July 24 when the MLS secondary transfer window opens. How will Miami manage the salary cap with another star on their books? That remains to be seen, but MLS clubs have historically found creative solutions when bringing in high-profile talent.
Will De Paul's arrival help "Inter Miami" dominate not just MLS but also continental competitions like the Concacaf Champions Cup? Only time will tell, but one thing's certain - the Argentine connection in Florida just got stronger.
