Lionel Messi's Inter Miami teammate in advanced talks with Argentine club over surprise switch: Reports

River Plate are in advanced talks to sign Lionel Messi's Inter Miami teammate Matias Rojas, according to journalist German Garcia Grova (via intermiami.news). The Paraguayan attacker arrived at the Chase Stadium as a free agent in April last year.

Rojas registered nine goals and two assists from 20 games across competitions. He was particularly decisive for the Herons in the Leagues Cup, scoring four goals in four games, and powering them singlehandedly into the Round of 16.

The 29-year-old helped Inter Miami deal with the absence of key players due to injuries, including Lionel Messi. However, in a surprising action, the Herons have included Roja in the MLS expansion draft.

The Florida-based club won the Supporters' Shield this season and have roped in Javier Mascherano as their new manager. The Argentinean is overseeing multiple changes to his squad.

Diego Gomez, Leonardo Campana and CJ Dos Santos have all left the Chase Stadium. Inter Miami have added Fafa Picault to their roster and are close to securing the services of Tadeo Allende.

It now appears that Rojas could also be on his way out in the coming days. The report adds that Boca Juniors head coach Fernando Gago reached out to the Paraguayan regarding a move. However, Boca didn't follow up with an offer and River Plate are now set to complete a move for the player.

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What has Matias Rojas said about sharing the pitch with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami?

Lionel Messi

Matias Rojas once said that playing with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami is a dream come true. The Argentinean arrived at the Chase Stadium in the summer of 2023 and has since transformed the Herons' fortunes.

Speaking in August last year, as cited by Inter Miami News, Rojas also labeled La Pulga as the 'best player in history of football'.

“Leo is always there, he watches everything and he talks to us before games. He communicates more with those who can speak Spanish, he pays attention to what is happening, and he gives his opinion," said Rojas.

He continued:

“We are proud to be in there, enjoying these moments, sometimes I talk to family to realize what is happening, but as I always say, I will not get tired of saying we share the day with the best player in the history of football, there are no words to describe what I feel every day.”

Lionel Messi's contract with the MLS side expires at the end of this year.