Inter Miami confirms Lionel Messi has lost an Argentine teammate to LaLiga side

Inter Miami are enduring a challenging season, marked by defensive lapses and shortcomings in midfield. The Herons need their top players to spark a turnaround alongside Lionel Messi, but they have just lost a key Argentine midfielder to LaLiga.

Inter Miami confirmed they have transferred midfielder Federico Redondo to Spanish LaLiga side Elche. The Herons will retain a sell-on percentage in the event of any future permanent transfer involving the Argentine.

Redondo, 22, joined Inter Miami in February 2024 and went on to make 60 appearances across all competitions, recording two goals and four assists. He was an important part of the squad that captured the 2024 Supporters’ Shield with a league-record 74 points in the regular season — the club’s second trophy in history.

The move makes sense for both parties. While Redondo was once a central figure in Miami’s midfield, the arrival of Rodrigo De Paul has limited his chances of regaining a spot in the starting lineup. A switch to LaLiga offers him the opportunity for more minutes and a higher level of intensity.

Federico Redondo #55 of Inter Miami CF in action in the first half against New York City FC at Yankee Stadium.

Inter Miami prepare for a new signing

With Redondo’s departure, speculation has grown about a potential reinforcement, particularly in their weakest area — the defense. According to Mexican outlet Súper Deportivo, Inter Miami are in advanced talks to sign Argentine defender Gonzalo Piovi from Liga MX side Cruz Azul. The report claims Inter Miami and Piovi have already agreed on a three-year contract, though his release from Cruz Azul has yet to be finalized.

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Following Miami’s interest, TUDN reported that Cruz Azul’s executives are demanding close to $7 million for the 30-year-old center back. The outlet also noted that if Inter Miami refuse to meet that figure, the Mexican club will “not consider any further offers” for Piovi.

Piovi is regarded as a crucial part of Cruz Azul’s back line. Since joining the club in January 2024, he has made 74 appearances and contributed six assists, though he is still searching for his first goal.