Rodrigo De Paul’s Inter Miami Move Ignites Controversy Over MLS Rulebook originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Inter Miami seems closer than ever in its pursuit of Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul. The Atletico Madrid star has been on the team’s radar for a while, and the ongoing transfer window could see the club finally get their man.
According to reports, the club have already reached an agreement with the player over a 4-year contract that will see him reunite alongside fellow Argentine and best friend Lionel Messi. The Herons have reportedly tabled a $15 million offer for De Paul to Atletico and are confident of finalising the deal in the coming weeks.
While De Paul’s addition is sure to benefit Inter Miami, some experts have used the transfer as an opportunity to raise concerns over Major League Soccer’s existing salary cap and contract rules.
Gomez labels Major League Soccer rules stupid
Former USMNT legend Herculez Gomez touched down on Inter Miami’s potential signing of Rodrigo De Paul in his latest appearance on ESPN Futbol Americas. Gomez while discussing the transfer claimed, Major League Soccer needs to change with growing times and a change in their rules could allow other teams to witness similar success like Inter Miami.
Gomez stated, “This is a team that has been publicly punished for breaking laws by Major League Soccer. Now, I’m not saying that they are breaking laws. I’m saying allow teams to spend. Allow these teams to get better. Remove some of these stupid mechanisms. We saw what Inter Miami was before the World Cup and now they have surprised all of us.”
The former American star isn’t the first person to question Major League Soccer’s strict financial rules. Many experts believe the league needs to be more lenient with their wage cap and salary rules in an attempt to help the league grow similar to some of the top leagues in the world.
While the financial regulations to bring an even contest on the field, attracting top players to this side of the world needs a hefty paycheck. With Lionel Messi currently standing tall as the face of the league, this could be the perfect oppurtunity for the organisers to draw other top names to America to ensure maintaining the league’s popularity.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 24, 2025, where it first appeared.