David Beckham identifies 33-year-old ex-Real Madrid attacker as ‘priority target’ to strengthen Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami: Reports
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham is reportedly prepared to launch an offer to sign ex-Real Madrid star James Rodriguez to team up with Lionel Messi in Florida. The Herons are in the market for quality additions as they prepare for a campaign in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup in 2025.
Inter Miami failed to translate their regular season form to the playoffs, losing in the first round. This, in addition to their qualification for next summer's Club World Cup, has pushed the club to target James Rodriguez, according to a report from El Nacional.
Currently on the books of Rayo Vallecano, 33-year-old Rodriguez has played just six times this season for a total of 136 minutes across six LaLiga games, without registering a goal contribution. The Colombia international is reportedly unhappy with his situation at the Spanish club and is willing to explore a move away from the club.
The former Real Madrid man delivered a reminder of his quality over the summer during the 2024 Copa America on US soil, where he led Colombia to the final. They lost to Lionel Messi's Argentina, but the attacking midfielder finished the tournament with one goal and six assists.
James Rodriguez would be a good addition to the Inter Miami side. The Herons may look to sign him in January once the European transfer window opens again.
Argentine superstar Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023 and a few stars quickly followed suit, including the likes of Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez. The club has witnessed unprecedented success since, winning the Leagues Cup and MLS Supporters' Shield, and breaking the MLS Regular Season points record (74 points).
Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos and Lionel Messi among oldest nominees for 2024 The Best FIFA award
Eleven players have been officially shortlisted for The Best FIFA Men's Player award, and it includes a number of familiar faces. Inter Miami and Argentina captain Lionel Messi is on the list, as is retired Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos.
Winner of the award in 2022 and 2023, Lionel Messi is the oldest player to receive a nomination this year at 37 after an impressive year with Inter Miami and Argentina. He is joined by another veteran, Kroos, who retired in the summer aged 34 after a trophy-laden 2024 with Real Madrid.
The rest of the shortlist is made up of Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, Manchester City stars Rodri and Erling Haaland, and Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz. Real Madrid stars Vinicius Jr, Dani Carvajal, Federico Valverde, Kylian Mbappe, and Jude Bellingham complete the list.