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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

While Inter Miami continues to strive on the pitch, they are not neglecting off-field developments. The Herons are equally dedicated to strengthening their squad. Per reports, the latest name on the roster of the Miami headquarters is none other than former Real Madrid star James Rodriguez, who just months ago, candidly expressed his desire to play alongside Lionel Messi.  

The latest transfer development was shared by renowned Peru-based journalist Omar Ore. He claims that the 32-year-old is currently in negotiations with Peruvian club Alianza Lima. However, there is also interest from not just Inter Miami but their MLS arch-rivals, La Galaxy, who are also keeping tabs on the former Los Blancos star. Notably, Rodriguez is currently playing for the Brazilian side Sao Paulo. 

However, currently sidelined due to a muscle injury, he has managed to make just 22 appearances, scoring 2 goals and providing 4 assists since his arrival in the summer of 2023. Despite having a contract until 2025, the attacking midfielder is reportedly unhappy with his time at the club and is seeking an exit. If Miami proceeds with Rodriguez’s signature, they will be required to pay a specific fee. But will they, considering they are also focused somewhere else too? 

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Despite Tata Martino pouring cold water on Angel Di Maria’s arrival, reports emerged yesterday that the player’s representatives were spotted at Miami’s facilities. One could suggest bringing both superstars to Chase Stadium but it would require a significant effort from the Fort Lauderdale side to make it happen. 

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Either way, it remains to be seen if Miami lock horns against other interested parties to sign Rodriguez. Successfully doing so would help the midfielder fulfill his dream.

Inter Miami can accomplish James Rodriguez’s dream of playing alongside Lionel Messi

In a previous interview, when asked about his ideal teammate on the pitch, he expressed his desire to partner with his former coach Zidane and La Pulga, saying, “With Messi, I faced him many times, but I would have loved to play with him.” Both Messi and Rodriguez were involved in many heated El Clasico’s. Hence, the Colombian knows very well the quality of the Argentine maestro. But the fandom doesn’t end here. 

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Despite sharing a locker room with Cristiano Ronaldo in Madrid, he said, “I’ve always thought that Messi is the best in history.” In fact, to further fuel the GOAT debate, he once also said, “In Real Madrid, we were forced by contract to say that the best was Cristiano.” These statements reflect Rodriguez’s keenness to team up with the 8x Ballon d’Or winner. It remains to be seen if Inter Miami will play a role in fulfilling his dream.