Inter Miami Secure Rodrigo De Paul on Permanent Deal
Inter Miami CF has officially exercised its option to permanently acquire Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul from Atlético Madrid. The announcement, made on Thursday, finalizes a move that was initially structured as a loan in July 2025, with an option to make the transfer permanent.
De Paul's impact on Inter Miami was immediate and significant. Since joining the team mid-season, the 31-year-old has featured in 23 matches across all competitions, contributing two goals and seven assists. He played a pivotal role in Inter Miami's triumphant MLS Cup 2025 run, starting in all six playoff matches and even scoring the decisive goal against Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
The transfer fee is reported to be around $17 million, making De Paul the second-most expensive signing in Major League Soccer history. He surpasses Kevin Denkey, who moved to FC Cincinnati for $16.2 million in 2024, but remains behind the top spot.
"Inter Miami announce their roster decisions, including picking up Rodrigo De Paul's purchase option. Fee around $17m,” reported Tom Bogert via his X account. The club's substantial financial commitment underscores De Paul's value and importance to the team.
De Paul's acquisition not only secures a key player for Inter Miami but also elevates his status within the league. His contributions on the field, coupled with his experience as a 2022 FIFA World Cup champion with Argentina, make him a valuable asset.
According to The Athletic, Lionel Messi also played a significant role in persuading the club's management to make the deal permanent. With the permanent acquisition of De Paul, Messi and De Paul are now teammates at both club and international levels.
With Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets potentially departing, De Paul could fill one of the open Designated Player slots. This designation allows MLS teams to exceed the salary cap, as Designated Players' wages do not fully count toward the limit. De Paul will be under contract with Inter Miami through 2029.
In addition to securing De Paul, Inter Miami is reportedly in talks with Luis Suárez to extend the 38-year-old Uruguayan striker's contract for another season.
