Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami Eyeing Atletico Madrid Pair

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are reportedly interested in signing two Atletico Madrid players next summer. 

The 2025 MLS Cup winners raided Atletico last summer as well, signing Rodrigo de Paul on loan with an option to buy in the January transfer window.

They have exercised the €15 million purchase clause in the Argentine’s contract and will register him as a permanent player in the coming weeks.

Inter Miami Want to Sign Atletico Madrid Duo

After winning the Supporters’ Shield last year, Inter Miami went all the way in the MLS Cup in 2025. Lionel Messi, alongside Sergio Busquets, Rodrigo De Paul, and Jordi Alba, all played a part in that trophy run.

Busquets and Alba have decided to retire after the Cup win, leaving the door open for high-profile acquisitions. Since Miami cannot move for Robert Lewandowski, two Atletico Madrid players have appeared on their radar.

According to journalist Ekrem Konur (via Mundo Deportivo), Lionel Messi’s side have set their sights on Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke and star frontman Antoine Griezmann.

Koke Seen as a Potential Successor for Sergio Busquets

With Sergio Busquets leaving the team, Inter Miami are looking for a player capable of controlling the tempo in midfield. Lionel Messi and co-owner David Beckham believe Koke would be a worthy addition.

Koke, 33, is a central midfielder by trait but is comfortable playing in a deeper position. He possesses admirable stamina and is widely revered for his doggedness. The Spaniard is also a natural leader and has led Atletico to some iconic wins.

Koke has been at Atletico Madrid since 2011 and sees his contract expire in June 2026. Contract talks have been ongoing, but a breakthrough has yet to arrive.

#InterMiamiFC
Lionel Messi wants Koke at Inter Miami!

↔️ To fill Busquets’ gap after 2025 retirement.
Targets: Koke & Griezmann
Koke: final 6 months of contract, possible summer exit. pic.twitter.com/fX5wp9HJMs

— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) December 16, 2025

Antoine Griezmann Also on Inter Miami’s Radar

Alongside Koke, Antoine Griezmann has also emerged as a transfer target for the Florida-based team. Inter Miami believe his playing style is a good fit for the club.

Additionally, Lionel Messi shares a good relationship with the Frenchman thanks to their time together at Barcelona. Considering how big a hand the Argentine has in Miami’s transfers, this could be decisive in the transfer saga.

Griezmann has long been vocal about playing in the MLS, with reports suggesting that his move is only a matter of time. The Frenchman has been linked with Los Angeles FC in the past, but a move to Inter Miami is also a strong possibility.

Griezmann, who initially joined Atletico Madrid in July 2014, sees his contract expire in June 2027. According to Transfermarkt, the 34-year-old is currently worth around €11 million.