Inter Miami reject bid from Premier League side to sign Lionel Messi's teammate - Reports

According to Cesar Luis Merlo, Inter Miami have rejected a $8.5 million bid from Brighton & Hove Albion for Diego Gomez. The Paraguayan has impressed for the Herons.

The 21-year-old has had a good start to the season, scoring thrice and providing as many assists in 13 appearances across competitions. He plays as a central midfielder and looks ready for a move to the Premier League.

Inter Miami, however, reportedly want a bigger sum. They want to use Miguel Almiron's 2019 move to Newcastle from Atlanta for $30 million as a measuring stick for Gomez.

Gomez, on the other hand, could stay at Inter Miami and play with the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and more. While Brighton offer a better league, playing regularly and pursuing growth could be the better option for Gomez than moving to a Premier League club and sitting on the bench.

Gomez is already a Paraguay international, having made seven appearances for the national team. The South American could be a key player for Inter Miami during the remainder of the ongoing season.

Julian Gressel filling in Lionel Messi's void for Inter Miami

Lionel Messi is currently on international duty with Argentina for the ongoing Copa America 2024. In his absence, Julian Gressel has filled in the void well, making three goal contributions.

Gressel recently opened up about the responsibility of playing better in Messi's absence. He said on the Player/Manager podcast (via GOAL):

"We knew that he was going to be gone at the Copa America, so the intention was always for me to step into that position. Obviously, I'll never be able to fill his shoes. But it's something I can do and do it in my way, and I thought I played pretty effectively against Columbus."

Messi's Argentina have already progressed to the quarterfinals of the ongoing Copa America 2024.