Messi could be reunited with star teammate as Inter Miami prepares big move | OneFootball

The coming FIFA Club World Cup, to be hosted by America from June 14 to July 13, has put Inter Miami on its toes. With the tournament looming large, David Beckham's club wants to toughen up, not just on the field, but also on the soccer map of the world. The biggest name in the pot at the moment is Ángel Di María, the World Cup-winning Argentine striker with Benfica.

The news went round international media, especially after Argentina's TNT Sports as it outlined the American club's interest. According to reports, Inter Miami sees Di María as an investment to strengthen the squad and potentially form a new partnership with Lionel Messi, as the two played for the Argentine national team for years and achieved titles together.

Di María, Messi, Otamendi - CONMEBOL Copa America USA 2024: Final | Carmen Mandato/GettyImages

The idea of recruiting Di María for the tournament isn't new, but it gained pace again as the competition is closing in and the player's future remains uncertain. The forward, 37 years old, is at the end of his contract with Benfica, where he played last season. And while Rui Costa, the president of the Portuguese club, has been quoted saying he wishes to keep him, there is no word on the renewal yet.

Heralding the opportunity and Messi relationship

Meanwhile, behind closed doors, Inter Miami is watching carefully. Signing Di María would not only improve the technicality of the squad, but it would instantly strengthen the connection with Messi, the biggest star of the club. The two are very familiar with each other on the pitch, have a winning experience with Argentina's national team, and complement each other on the pitch.

Apart from Di María, there's also the name of Kevin De Bruyne being considered as an option because he's also close to the expiration of his contract at Manchester City. The Belgian midfielder is considered by the majority to be one of the world's best, and there've been rumors about his engagement with Inter Miami previously. During the previous window, reportedly, the club showed interest. So far today, he's also a name still on the table.

However, recent attention has been directed more towards Di María, especially with regard to the timing of his contract and his relationship with Messi. At Benfica, there is a plan to extend his contract for at least 15 more days, just sufficient to allow him to play in the Club World Cup in the jersey of the Portuguese club. Another option would be a one-season renewal, which would take Inter Miami out of the running for now. Neither scenario, however, has been confirmed so far.

Possible transfer could raise Inter Miami’s profile

For Inter Miami, building a competitive roster for the Club World Cup is as much about attracting attention off the field as playing well on it. The tournament is an incredible chance for global exposure, even more so given that it is being held in the United States, the host country of the upcoming World Cup. With Messi added to the roster, the club already gets plenty of attention, but Beckham seems determined to take it to the next level.