Rodrigo De Paul talked up his admiration of Lionel Messi, with a transfer from Atlético Madrid to Inter Miami now set to be completed. De Paul will trade La Liga for Major League Soccer after four years in Spain, boosting an Inter Miami roster that already boasts Sergio Busquets, Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba, in addition to Messi.

Inter Miami has agreed to terms with De Paul for a four-year deal that will be structured as a loan from Atletico Madrid through 2025 with the option to purchase, per a source with knowledge of the negotiations. Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas spent last week in Madrid finalizing the deal, with an announcement expected in the coming week.

Rodrigo De Paul will reportedly first join on loan this summer as the Herons add a major reinforcement to the midfield.

Lionel Messi has played 90-plus minutes in 14 consecutive games heading into Inter Miami home game vs. Nashville on Saturday.