Inter Miami Withdraw $7.5M Offer for 21YO Star to Join Lionel Messi After Boca Juniors Demand $12M: Reports

As Inter Miami prepares to unleash its star-studded attack in the upcoming MLS season, a wrench has been thrown in their transfer plans. The David Beckham-owned club, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, had initially targeted 21-year-old Argentine sensation Cristian Medina from Boca Juniors. However, the latest report suggests a surprising withdrawal of their interest in the young talent, as Boca Juniors demands $12 million for their prized asset.

With Lionel Messi leading the charge alongside Luis Suarez this season, the Herons were hoping to add another young Argentine diamond to their lineup. However, with this latest development and blockade by Boca Juniors, Inter Miami’s aspirations now hangs in balance.

The unraveling drama for the acquisition of the 21YO Argentine star

In a bid to bolster their squad, Inter Miami had meticulously planned a $7.5 million bid for Cristian Medina. The club intended to secure 80% of the player’s services initially, by offering a $7 million upfront payment, with the remaining half million to be settled upon complete acquisition. However, Boca Juniors firmly rejected the offer, asserting that Medina’s true value far exceeds Miami’s proposed figure. The Argentine club has now asked for $12 million to entertain any offers for the youngster.

Now, with the Brazilian club Botafogo also vying for Medina’s signature, Inter Miami has opted to come out from the transfer race. This withdrawal comes as a setback to the Herons, as Lionel Messi & Co. were aiming to compete at the top this season. Adding depth and dynamism to their squad was crucial for their charge. Medina’s youthful flair alongside Messi’s experience was a tantalizing prospect, however, Inter Miami will need to re-strategize once again.

As the dust settles on the failed bid for Medina, the spotlight now turns to Inter Miami’s plans for navigating the competitive transfer market.

READ MORE: MLS’ Latest Departure Confirms Ditching David Beckham’s Offer to Play Alongside Lionel Messi for Return to Europe

Inter Miami plans to link up Lionel Messi with another former Barcelona talent

Amidst the setback surrounding the Medina deal, Inter Miami has already shifted its focus to another former Barcelona star. Phillipe Coutinho, the 31-year-old Brazilian forward and Aston Villa outcast, is reportedly on Miami’s radar. Currently on loan at Al-Duhail in Qatar, Coutinho has fallen out of favor at Villa Park under Unai Emery. Though the prospect of Coutinho reuniting with former teammates adds a layer of intrigue, the possibility of playing alongside Lionel Messi hinges on the uncertain scenario of cutting short his loan spell.

The Brazilian is also attracting interest from LA Galaxy, apart from Inter Miami links. It’ll be interesting to see how David Beckham builds his MLS dream team. With Lionel Messi and the squad motivated to start strong this season, a competitive MLS transfer market is anticipated by the fans.

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