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Lionel Messi's Inter Miami are reportedly looking to snap up former Real Madrid midfielder James Rodriguez. Messi and Rodriguez locked horns in La Liga when the former was with Barcelona and Rodriguez played for Los Blancos.
Rodriguez, 33, played at the Santiago Bernabeu between 2014-15 and 2019-20, contributing 37 goals and 42 assists in 125 games across competitions, winning two UEFA Champions League and one La Liga title.
Now playing for Brazilian side Sao Paulo, he's coming off a superb 2024 Copa America campaign with Colombia. The 33-year-old contributed a goal and six assists in five games as his team lost 1-0 in extra time to Messi's Argentina in the final.
As reported by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Rodriguez has mutually terminated his contract with Sao Paulo. The Herons have been linked with the talented midfielder for a while, and a move could materialise this summer, but the player's preference seems to be a return to Europe.
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Nevertheless, considering the significant Colombian population in Miami, the 33-year-old could be a fan-favorite and a fabulous addition at a star-studded Herons side featuring former Barca stars like Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez.
Considering the David Beckham-co-owned side's rapid rise in pedigree - leading the MLS Eastern Conference - they could look to make an early move to snap up the Colombian.
Lionel Messi thanks Inter Miami faithful for celebrating his record-breaking 45th title
Lionel Messi was feted by his club side Inter Miami last weekend for winning a record 45th title with club and country by triumphing in the 2024 Copa America. By breaking a tie with his former Barcelona teammate Dani Alves, Messi is now the most decorated player in the game's history.
The Argentina captain had an injury-plagued campaign - contributing a goal and an assist in five games - but won a fourth straight title with La Albiceleste, adding to his triumphs at the 2021 Copa America, 2022 Finalissima and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
In an Instagram post, Messi offered his thanks for the recognition of his latest feat (as translated from Spanish):
"Thank you so much for the recognition, @intermiamicf! It was a pleasure to share this moment with our people on the court."
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is currently out injured, rupturing his ligament in the Colombia game. His return to action for Inter Miami remains unknown.
