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Lionel Messi Facing Breakup in Miami After Rodrigo De Paul News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Parker Johnson | Last updated Jul 7, 2025 12:31 PM ET

On Monday, soccer transfer guru Fabrizio Romano confirmed the rumors that Inter Miami CF has started talks to sign midfielder Rodrigo De Paul from Atletico Madrid.

De Paul, 31, played with Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi on the Argentina teams that won the 2021 Copa America, 2022 World Cup and 2024 Copa America.

He fits the description of the type of players and managers IMCF has brought in since Messi's arrival — former teammates within the circle of trust of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.

The move makes sense in theory, but restrictive MLS roster rules mean that in order to bring in the midfield maestro from Atletico Madrid, Inter Miami would have to break up its current big three around Messi — his former FC Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez.

MLS insider Tom Bogert responded to the De Paul news by confirming that the "only way" for the Herons to bring in the Argentinian midfielder is to free up a designated player (DP) spot, given De Paul's expected salary.

In his view, Busquets, 36, is the only realistic option of their three DPs. Messi is off the table, and Alba recently signed a contract extension.

On the links of Rodrigo de Paul to Inter Miami: For this to be possible... Miami would have to lose one DP. Only way.

Would likely mean a retirement for Sergio Busquets.

It'd be fun... but I for sure wouldn't recommend a $20m fee for a box-to-box midfielder given roster rules. pic.twitter.com/ZC30adBB5X
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) July 7, 2025

There are also doubts about Suarez's future with the club after the 2025 season, but his status is not relevant to the De Paul signing as he does not occupy a DP slot.

Even if they have to say a hard goodbye, it may be worth it for Inter Miami. The club is hoping to finalize a contract extension with Messi soon, and De Paul's presence would signal a commitment to refreshing the options around their captain on the pitch.

Ankara Messi, Ankara Messi, Ankara Messi Ankara Messi, Ankara Messi . pic.twitter.com/DsvmC73hns
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 6, 2025

After being knocked out of the FIFA Club World Cup by PSG, reinforcements are clearly needed as Inter Miami's quest for a trophy in 2025 continues. It will come down to the rest of the MLS season and the Leagues Cup, which begins July 30.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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