Messi effect laid bare as Inter Miami secures deal for Argentina wonderkid

Inter Miami have announced the signing of Federico Redondo from Argentinos Juniors.

The 21-year-old midfielder has signed a contract until the end of the 2027 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, which Miami can extend by a further 12 months. The transfer will be finalised once Redondo receives the necessary visa to play in the United States.

Signing Redondo is a coup for Miami, who are co-owned by David Beckham. The youngster was a regular for Juniors last season and has represented Argentina at youth level. He is expected to be part of Argentina's U23 squad for this summer's Olympics in Paris.

Miami's ability to sign a player of Redondo's calibre shows the impact Lionel Messi has had on the club since becoming their captain following his move last summer. The likes of Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba have all signed for Miami since Messi's transfer.

"We’re pleased to bring an exciting young midfielder like Federico to Inter Miami," said the club's chief soccer officer and sporting director Chris Henderson.

"He’s a very promising player who is sharp with the ball at his feet, and shows awareness out of possession. We believe in his potential, but also feel he will immediately be a strong addition to our squad as we look to build on our successes in 2024."

Redondo added: "I’m very happy to join a Club that is growing so much. It’s a great opportunity to share the pitch with top players. I’m looking forward to integrating in the group with my teammates. We have to go step by step but always dream big."

Miami have become the most talked about team in the MLS since their inaugural season back in 2020. They won the first trophy last season, as Messi scored 10 goals to inspire them to victory in the Leagues Cup. He was named as the tournament's Best Player.

Messi's former Barcelona team-mate Gerard Pique believes the Argentina captain, who won the 2022 World Cup, is expanding football in the United States. "I see Leo happy, he fulfilled all his dreams when he started playing," Pique told ESPN.

"The World Cup was the epitome of everything and I think that in Miami he is expanding soccer. With his image and the fact of playing in the MLS, he made the United States gain strength... Football people wanted Messi to be world champion.

"Especially because of the doubters who questioned his career, and said he was missing the World Cup. I think there are no longer any doubts. He is the best player in the history of football. He elevated Barcelona to another dimension."

Miami defeated Real Salt Lake 2-0 in their MLS opener last Thursday, and their campaign continues at LA Galaxy on Monday. "He looked loose, fine and showed a lot of speed," Miami coach Gerardo Martino said of Messi's performance after Thursday's game.