Rodrigo De Paul Open to Inter Miami Switch as Talks Begin with Atlético Madrid

Inter Miami have begun discussions with Atlético Madrid over a potential deal to bring Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul to MLS. The 31-year-old, who has just one year left on his current contract at the Metropolitano, is reportedly open to the idea of making the move to the United States.

De Paul joined Atlético in 2021 from Udinese in a €35 million transfer and, despite a rocky stint filled with ups and downs, just completed his most consistent and impactful season for Diego Simeone’s side. Still, there’s a growing sense within the club that it may be time to move on. Extending his contract has been described internally as “risky” due to his age and the turbulent four-year spell he’s had in Madrid. 

Inter Miami, meanwhile, are thinking big once again. The club has been eyeing another marquee signing to build on their Club World Cup appearance and maintain momentum, especially with uncertainty lingering around Lionel Messi’s future. Signing a close friend of Messi’s in De Paul could be a strategic move to convince the World Cup winner to stick around longer. 

The Miami Herald has reported that team owner Jorge Mas is already in Madrid, and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed that talks between the two clubs are underway. “Inter Miami have now started talks with Atlético Madrid for Rodrigo De Paul,” Romano posted. “Told Rodrigo’s open to the move… with talks underway.” 

Understand Inter Miami have now started talks with Atlético Madrid for Rodrigo de Paul deal!

Inter Miami want to keep its ambitions high after the Club World Cup with WC champion de Paul as main target.

Told Rodrigo’s open to the move to Inter Miami with talks underway. pic.twitter.com/KNyqHYXOcZ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 7, 2025

Atleti are said to have placed a $17 million price tag on De Paul. That fee appears modest, especially considering his status as a World Cup winner and the engine-room presence he brings to any side. But it might also reflect Atlético’s desire to move quickly, particularly with incoming transfers like USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso adding depth to their squad.  

There are some wrinkles to iron out on Miami’s end. Despite their deep pockets, the club has often voiced frustration over MLS’s restrictive roster and salary rules—issues that already complicated attempts to sign Neymar and Kevin De Bruyne. Unless they find a creative workaround, bringing De Paul in could be tricky. Then there's the question of where exactly he would fit in. Central midfield is already one of Inter Miami’s strongest areas, anchored by Sergio Busquets and young Benjamin Cremaschi. Still, with Busquets’ contract expiring soon and Luis Suárez also likely to depart, the long-term vision might be for De Paul to take over that leadership role in the heart of midfield. 

De Paul is said to be excited by the prospect of continuing his career in the U.S., and Inter Miami seem equally eager to add more world-class quality. If things fall into place, this could be another statement signing for a club that’s never afraid to think big. 

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