Argentine giants eyeing up possible move for Lionel Messi's Inter Miami teammate - Reports

Argentine club River Plate are reportedly keen on signing Inter Miami midfielder Federico Redondo. According to River Noticias, the side are looking to sign Lionel Messi's 21-year-old teammate just a year into his move to the US.

Redondo joined in February 2024 from Argentinos Juniors, signing as an under-22 player. The highly-touted midfielder was expected to play a key role for the side but has struggled to find regular minutes owing to fitness issues. In all, he has made 23 appearances for the Herons, collecting two goals and two assists.

River Plate exhibited interest in the youngster earlier according to the report. It remains to be seen if he will make a move back to his home nation in the upcoming January transfer window. Redondo is expected to command a sizeable transfer fee owing to his young age and high potential.

Despite his inconsistencies, Inter Miami have been the team to beat in the MLS this season. They broke the record for most points ever in the league stage in the competition's history with 74. Having won the Supporters' Shield, Messi and Co. will now look to lift the MLS Cup through the playoff rounds.

---

Inter Miami manager makes bold claim about Messi over 2024 Ballon d'Or

Martino claimed that Messi was the best player in the world.

Inter Miami boss Gerardo 'Tata' Martino opened up on the Ballon d'Or award. The Mexican said that while he believed Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr would win it, Lionel Messi was the best player in the world for him.

He said (via Goal):

“It (the Ballon d’Or) has never been something that caught my attention, nor was it clear to me whether the award is for the best in the world or of the year. Vinicius Junior probably has the merit (of being the best last season), although if you ask me who is the best right now, it’s Messi,” Martino was quoted as saying by Goal.

All signs were pointing to the Vinicius lifting his first Ballon d'Or, set to become the fifth Brazilian to do so. However, the tables were turned at the last moment as Manchester City's Rodri took home the award.

Meanwhile, Messi is the most decorated player in the award's history, winning it an incredible eight times. His most recent win came last year, beating off the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, having lifted the World Cup with Argentina in 2022 in Qatar.