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Inter Miami rumors: Talks initiated to reunite Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria
Image credit: ClutchPoints

The world of football transfer rumors is again ablaze, with reports emerging of a potential Stateside switch for Argentina star Angel Di Maria. The winger, whose contract with Benfica expires in June, is reportedly being courted by Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit Inter Miami, where he would reunite with his longtime friend and compatriot Lionel Messi.

ESPN Argentina ignited the speculation, reporting that Inter Miami targets Di Maria to bolster their attacking ranks. The 36-year-old would bring his vast experience, veteran leadership, and firepower to a frontline already boasting the likes of Messi and Luis Suarez.

Di Maria and Messi share a storied history, having formed a formidable partnership in the Argentina national team and during their time together at Paris Saint-Germain. With 138 caps for La Albiceleste and a wealth of experience garnered over the years, Di Maria’s addition would undoubtedly bolster Inter Miami’s ambitions on and off the field.

Reunion at Inter Miami: Di Maria and Messi

The prospect of Di Maria joining Inter Miami adds another layer to the ongoing narrative of former teammates reuniting under Messi’s leadership in South Beach. Should the move materialize, Di Maria would become Messi’s fourth ex-teammate to don the Inter Miami jersey, following in the footsteps of Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba.

However, any potential transfer for Di Maria would likely not materialize until after this summer’s Copa America, where he is set to represent Argentina. With the tournament looming, negotiations between Benfica and Inter Miami are expected to intensify, paving the way for Di Maria’s arrival in MLS.

As Inter Miami prepares to take on the New York Red Bulls in their upcoming MLS clash, speculation surrounding Di Maria’s future continues to dominate headlines. While the specifics of the transfer, including whether Di Maria would be classified as a Designated Player or fall under Targeted Allocation Money or General Allocation Money, remain unclear, one thing is certain: his arrival would require an international slot, adding another layer of complexity to the negotiations.

A New Chapter Beckons

For Di Maria, a potential move to Inter Miami represents a new chapter in his illustrious career. The allure of MLS, coupled with the opportunity to reunite with Messi and impact a burgeoning footballing market, holds undeniable appeal for the Argentine winger.

Beyond the allure of reuniting with Messi, Di Maria’s potential move to Inter Miami presents an opportunity to leave an indelible mark on the MLS landscape. His wealth of experience from top-level football in Europe and his flair and attacking prowess could elevate Inter Miami’s status within the league and further bolster its growing fanbase.

As the transfer saga unfolds, Di Maria finds himself at a crossroads, weighing the prospect of a new adventure in MLS against the familiarity of European football. While the allure of joining forces with Messi in Miami is undoubtedly enticing, Di Maria’s decision will ultimately hinge on his aspirations for the twilight years of his career.

With the Copa America set to showcase his talents on the international stage again, the summer of 2024 promises to be an intriguing period for one of Argentina’s footballing stalwarts. As Di Maria contemplates his next move, the footballing world eagerly awaits the outcome of negotiations between Benfica and Inter Miami, poised to unveil the next chapter in the winger’s illustrious career.

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This article first appeared on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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