'Facing Difficulties'- Mascherano Sends Clear Message Amid Rodrigo De Paul Transfer Links

Inter Miami is entering a critical stretch of the season, with key matches packed into a tight window and several veteran players in need of rest. At the same time, the club’s front office is actively working behind the scenes, pushing to sign Atlético Madrid midfielder Rodrigo De Paul — a close friend and longtime Argentina national teammate of Lionel Messi.

De Paul, widely regarded as one of the top defensive midfielders in the world, played a key role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph, lining up alongside Leandro Paredes and Enzo Fernández. Now, he could be the next star to make the move to South Florida.

With the MLS summer transfer window open, Inter Miami has entered negotiations with Atlético. But manager Javier Mascherano offered a dose of reality about the situation during an interview with Inter Miami reporter José Armando.

“The truth is that we’re facing difficulties making signings due to the league’s salary rules, so we’re looking for alternatives. Regarding this player [Brian Rodríguez], I have no idea — we haven’t discussed his possible arrival,” Mascherano said.

The MLS operates under a strict salary cap. In 2025, clubs are allowed to spend up to $5.9 million in total salaries, though there are exceptions — such as the use of Designated Player (DP) slots — that allow clubs to exceed that cap for specific signings.