Inter Miami Eyes Messi's Argentina Teammate in Blockbuster Transfer Move—Report
Current MLS title holders Inter Miami are actively pursuing squad enhancements for the next campaign and have allegedly targeted another Argentina international: Giovani Lo Celso.
Spanish publication El Correo de Andalucia indicates that Real Betis would be open to Lo Celso's departure if an appropriate bid materializes during the January transfer period. Argentina national team correspondent Gastón Edul confirms that Miami's pursuit of Lo Celso is genuine and discussions may commence shortly.
"Inter Miami desire Gio Lo Celso and are prepared to submit a formal proposal for him," Edul stated. "What is verified is that Inter Miami want him, they've already presented an unofficial bid and if Lo Celso agrees, then [Miami] will present an offer to Real Betis."
Per Mundo Deportivo, Lo Celso would be receptive to joining Miami. The 29-year-old midfielder's 2025 fitness struggles have reduced his standing at Betis and he begins 2025 having featured in only four of the squad's previous eight matches, without recording a single start since November.
What Would Inter Miami Need to Pay for Lo Celso
Various sources indicate that Real Betis would consider accepting a bid of approximately €5 million ($5.8 million) for Lo Celso, matching the fee the Andalusian club paid Tottenham Hotspur for the player during summer 2024.
The reasonable price could further encourage Miami to complete the signing, particularly considering the likely exit of Tadeo Allende. The Argentine netted 20 goals last season, including eight during Miami's MLS Cup championship campaign, the second highest tally for the Herons in 2025 after Messi. However, the forward is returning to Celta Vigo after his season-long loan expires.
Celta remain open to Allende departing again, but AS indicates the club won't accept less than €6 million ($7 million), with Celta pricing the player nearer to €10 million ($11.7 million). Additional clubs, including Argentine giants River Plate, are also pursuing Allende.
Miami might alternatively turn to Lo Celso, a player who would provide midfield flexibility—he's able to play an attacking role like Allende or a deeper position similar to what Miami lost when Sergio Busquets retired.
Nothing definitive exists regarding the Herons and Lo Celso, but following the Sergio Reguilón signing, it's evident the MLS champions aren't nearly done with their winter transfer activity.