Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul is set to join Inter Miami after agreeing to contract terms, according to a source close to the negotiations. The 31-year-old will leave Atlético Madrid, where he’s played since 2021, and make the move to Major League Soccer on a short-term deal that could evolve into a longer contract. With one year remaining on his current deal in Spain, De Paul’s decision signals a fresh chapter—this time alongside his close friend and national teammate Lionel Messi. Since Messi’s arrival in 2023, Inter Miami has seen a remarkable rise, reaching the Club World Cup knockout stage and winning five straight MLS matches as they chase a second consecutive Supporters’ Shield.
Rodrigo De Paul to Inter Miami: Messi’s Influence and a New MLS Chapter
In one of the most buzzworthy moves of the 2025 summer transfer window, Rodrigo De Paul is set to join Inter Miami from Atlético Madrid, marking another ambitious chapter in the MLS club’s rise under Lionel Messi’s influence.
A Surprise Transfer That’s Shaking Up European Football
At 31, Rodrigo De Paul remains in top form. He featured in 53 matches for Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid last season, proving to be a key cog in the midfield. That’s exactly why his decision to leave La Liga for Major League Soccer has turned heads. Many fans didn’t expect a move like this so soon—especially for a relatively modest fee.
Why Inter Miami? It’s More Than Just the Messi Effect
Reports suggest that De Paul’s move isn’t just about money or minutes—it’s about joining an exciting, evolving project spearheaded by Messi. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the deal is nearly finalized, with only minor details left to be sorted. De Paul is believed to be fully committed to the MLS journey and Inter Miami’s long-term vision.
The Argentine connection runs deep, and De Paul’s close bond with Messi—built on and off the pitch during Argentina’s Copa America and World Cup-winning runs—has clearly played a major role.
Atletico Madrid’s Summer Overhaul
This move is also part of Atletico Madrid’s wider summer restructuring. The club has already said goodbye to Cesar Azpilicueta, Axel Witsel, and Reinildo Mandava, allowing veteran contracts to expire. Along with Angel Correa, Rodrigo Riquelme, and Arthur Vermeeren, De Paul is among several players heading out as the club looks to reset under Simeone.
The Deal: Short-Term Loan With Long-Term Vision
Sources told ESPN that De Paul will initially join Inter Miami on a short-term loan, with an option to make the move permanent via a multiyear contract. The club’s co-owner Jorge Mas personally traveled to Madrid to help secure the deal—a clear sign of how high De Paul ranks in their plans.
What This Means for MLS and Inter Miami
De Paul’s arrival will further boost Inter Miami’s midfield, adding energy, vision, and tenacity. More importantly, it signals that MLS is now a genuine destination for top-tier international talent, not just a retirement home.
With Messi, Suarez, Busquets, Alba, and now De Paul forming a core of seasoned world-class players, Inter Miami is building more than a team—it’s building a legacy.