Rodrigo De Paul didn’t join Atlético de Madrid for their preseason in Los Angeles. That alone is a strong sign that his move to Inter Miami is close. The 31-year-old Argentine midfielder is expected to sign a four-year deal with the Major League Soccer club, according to reports from Argentina and Europe.
The agreement is set to be finalized in the coming days and includes a fee below the original €15 million release clause. De Paul played in Argentina’s Copa América wins in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 World Cup. Now, for the first time, he’s about to play on the same club team as Lionel Messi. They’ve been teammates for years with the national team, but never at club level. That changes with his move to the U.S.
New chapter in MLS
De Paul will join a growing list of familiar faces at Inter Miami. Busquets, Suárez, and Jordi Alba are already there. Javier Mascherano also works with the club in a technical role. The roster has a clear profile, experienced players with strong careers who know how to compete. It’s not just about names. It’s about players who can work well together from day one.
On the field, De Paul adds more control and energy to the midfield. He has the tools to help the team manage games and adjust when needed. His time with Argentina showed that he can play in different roles without losing consistency.
Beyond performance, his arrival also fits the club’s identity. Inter Miami has positioned itself as a strong reference for Latin American soccer in the U.S. De Paul is a well-known figure and brings visibility, especially among Spanish-speaking fans. That reach matters for a club looking to grow on and off the field.
A clean, fast negotiation
Inter Miami made it clear early on that it wouldn’t meet the full release clause. Atlético didn’t push to keep him. De Paul showed interest in the move, and the Spanish club was open to an agreement. Things moved quickly and without public issues.
Only the final paperwork remains. The deal should be signed soon. When it is, De Paul will officially join Messi’s team.
This move marks a change in direction for him. He’s leaving one of Europe’s top leagues to compete in MLS. The level is different, but the demands remain. He believes in the club’s plan and in the people leading it. Still, stepping out of Europe may cost him space in the national team setup back home.