2 months ago
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Set to leave Atleti?
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Atlético Madrid have been busy this transfer window. The LaLiga giants have already added midfielder Álex Baena from Villarreal and are expected to sign US men’s national team player Johnny Cardoso. With two new midfielders in the squad, Rodrigo De Paul could soon become surplus to requirements, and according to a report by Fabrizio Romano, he has expressed interest in joining his Argentine friend, Lionel Messi, at Inter Miami CF.
Adding De Paul, however, isn’t straightforward for Inter Miami. In Messi, Jordi Alba ,and Sergio Busquets, Inter Miami already have three Designated Players under contract. To make the deal work, one of those three spots would have to be freed up. While Alba is under contract until 2027, Busquets and Messi see their deals expire at the end of the season. But Miami are in positive talks with Messi to renew the contract for at least one more season.
The salary cap situation isn’t the only obstacle for Inter Miami. Although De Paul is only under contract for one more season at Atlético Madrid, head coach Diego Simeone is going to ask for a significant transfer fee for the 31-year-old midfielder. De Paul currently has a market value of €25m, which would make him the most valuable player in Major League Soccer ahead of Messi and LA Galaxy star Riqui Puig (overview).
Rodrigo de Paul to Inter Miami - A potential Busquets replacement?
Why are Inter Miami interested in De Paul? The number one reason for owners Jorge Mas and David Beckham is to continue the club’s ambition. The decision-makers in Miami were encouraged by the results at the FIFA Club World Cup, while also recognizing the gap that still exists compared to the top leagues in Europe and South America. Adding talent to be competitive in MLS and continental competitions, such as the Concacaf Champions Cup, is therefore important for the club’s brand.
In terms of roster construction, De Paul could also become an essential piece for the club. Although talks are ongoing with Messi regarding a new contract, the situation surrounding Busquets remains unclear. The Spaniard turns 37 in mid-July and has struggled for pace this season in MLS, the Champions Cup, and also the Club World Cup. There is now a good chance the 2014 World Cup winner could retire at the end of the season, and that would open up a DP spot and also make it imperative for Miami to add a new top-class midfielder.
