Lionel Messi's Inter Miami linked with move to sign USMNT star - Reports
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami are reportedly interested in signing Juventus and USA midfielder Weston McKennie. The Herons are on the hunt for silverware this season as they lie in second place in the MLS Eastern Conference and are set to defend the Leagues Cup.
McKennie has just one year left on his contract with Juventus and is not in new manager Thiago Motta's plans. The midfielder has been at the Italian club since 2020 and spent the second half of the 2022-23 season on loan at Championship side Leeds United.
Messi's arrival has coincided with Inter Miami improving the quality of the squad and their performance on the pitch. They have targeted players from Europe and South America in recent times, and a move for McKennie will be in keeping with their recent recruitment policy.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Inter Miami are interested in signing McKennie, who has several suitors, including some in Turkey. The 25-year-old was linked with a move to Aston Villa as part of the deal for Juventus signing Douglas Luiz. But he turned it down, with Enzo Barrenechea going in his place.
Weston McKennie was part of the US side that featured at the 2024 Copa America. The midfielder featured in all three games before the USA were eliminated from the group stages. The midfielder is currently on holiday before the resumption of pre-season.
McKennie is one of the biggest names in US football and a move to the MLS will significantly boost his perception in his home country. He will have to lower his salary demands for a move to Inter Miami to happen this summer.
Lionel Messi shares thoughts ahead of Copa America final
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has shared his thoughts ahead of the 2024 Copa America final against Colombia in Miami on Sunday, July 14. The 37-year-old is looking to claim his second Copa America title after winning the previous edition.
James Rodriguez's Colombia stand between Messi and the Copa America title, and the Inter Miami superstar acknowledges the quality of the opponents. He spoke with Fox Sports Argentina about the final, praising Colombia for their fine form.
“We watched the Uruguay and Colombia match. We knew that whoever it was going to be, it would be tough. Colombia hasn't lost in a long time. It’s a team with very good players, very intense as well. Up front, they have quick and dynamic players. And well, it’s a final," Lionel Messi said.
“Finals are always different matches. But we’re doing well, we’re calm like we’ve been throughout the whole tournament, enjoying everything that’s happening to us. And well, we’re focused on what that final is going to be,” he added.
Colombia boast star players like Luis Diaz and James Rodriguez and are more than capable of beating Lionel Messi and Argentina in the Copa America final.