James Rodriguez has emerged as the latest big-name player to be linked with a move to Inter Miami this January.
The Colombia international is set to become a free-agent with Inter Miami one of the clubs interested in snapping up Rodgiruez once his departure from Rayo Vallecano is confirmed by the La Liga side later this month.
With Inter Miami keen to have Rodriguez in their roster for the FIFA Club World Cup later this year, the Herons could soon launch a big ploy to sign the 33-year-old attacking midfielder as their superstar signing for the January window.
Yet Rodriguez’s own views on a move to MLS could throw a massive wrench in the works for Inter Miami.
READ MORE: Inter Miami fans react to James Rodriguez transfer rumors
Rodriguez wants to remain in Europe despite Inter Miami interest
According to AS, Rodriguez’s main priority is to remain in Europe, with the former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich superstar not too convinced about a move to MLS just yet in his career despite interest from Inter Miami.
With South American teams also interested in signing Rodriguez, Inter Miami’s odds of landing the former Everton man were already low given the scale of the competition they faced for the Colombian’s signature.
Yet with news now emerging that Rodriguez wants to stay in Europe, the Herons could find it near-impossible to secure a deal for the 33-year-old, even if they were to offer the veteran playmaker a Designated Player contract.
Indeed, Inter Miami face a big dilemma in what to do with their interest in Rodriguez, and Javier Mascherano will need to make a decision that aligns with what is in the best interest of the Florida franchise going into 2025.
What other superstars could Inter Miami sign this month?
Inter Miami are the superstar franchise in MLS after the signing of Lionel Messi back in 2023, with Luis Suarez joining the fold last year as Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba were also recruited 18 months ago.
And this January could see more superstar players join the Herons, with Inter Miami still linked with a move for Neymar as Angel Di Maria has emerged as target for Mascherano in the Argentine coach’s bid to add more firepower to the roster.
With the Club World Cup coming up later this year, Inter Miami know they will need quality across the board if they’re to make an impact in the competition, and signing the likes of Rodriguez, Neymar and Di Maria could do just that.