Lionel Messi reportedly hit with major squad blow as Inter Miami’s Argentine teammate heads to La Liga
Lionel Messi recently saw Inter Miami’s roster strengthened by the arrival of Argentina national team teammate Rodrigo De Paul, boosting hopes for silverware in the 2025 season. However, the Herons are now reportedly set to lose another Argentine teammate, with news emerging of a move to La Liga.
Inter Miami have been active in the 2025 summer transfer window, with De Paul’s signing as the headline addition following their FIFA Club World Cup campaign. But the club could face a midfield setback, as an Argentine player is said to be on the verge of departing.
According to transfer expert Cesar Luis Merlo, Federico Redondo is set to join Spanish side Elche CF on a permanent deal. The agreement covers 50% of his economic rights for a fee of $2.5 million, and the Argentine midfielder is already in Spain to sign a five-year contract with the La Liga club.
Elche earned promotion to the top flight after finishing second in the 2024-25 Segunda División season. With survival their primary goal, Redondo has been brought in to bolster the squad. Earlier reports had suggested the deal might be a loan with an option to buy.
Redondo joined Inter Miami in 2024 from Argentinos Juniors for around $9 million as one of Argentina’s most promising young talents. But after suffering a collateral ligament injury in his knee, he struggled to cement a starting role. He leaves the club having made 60 appearances, scoring two goals and providing four assists.
Inter Miami have options to replace Redondo
Injuries have been a recurring challenge for Inter Miami throughout the 2025 campaign, forcing coach Javier Mascherano to work with a reduced squad. With Messi currently the only major player sidelined, Mascherano still has several choices to fill Redondo’s role.
De Paul and Sergio Busquets are expected to anchor the midfield, leaving one open spot alongside them. Benjamin Cremaschi is a strong candidate, while Yannick Bright, Baltasar Rodriguez, and David Ruiz have all returned from injuries, providing the coach with added depth from the bench.