5 players Inter Miami should sign this summer to help Lionel Messi conquer MLS

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are flying high in the MLS Eastern Conference, with David Beckham’s team sitting first ahead of Cincinnati and Toronto. The World Cup-winning Argentine, 36, has ten goals and nine assists in eight MLS games this season and he has been joined on his U.S. adventure by three former Barcelona teammates; Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez.

After missing out on the postseason in the last campaign, with Messi, Alba, and Busquets joining mid-season as Inter Miami sat bottom, their place this year looks a certainty. They hold a huge 12-point gap on 10th-place Atlanta United.

Beckham could look to dip into the transfer market again, though, with the MLS’ second transfer window starting on July 18 to Aug. 14. There are several big names set to him on the market and be available, potentially even free transfers. A few names Messi and Co. will be incredibly familiar with and wouldn’t mind joining forces to conquer MLS. The Daily Express Sport looks at five names Inter Miami could sign this summer.

Angel Di Maria

Messi and Angel Di Maria were on rival teams in their club football days in Spain at Barca and Real Madrid respectively – but internationally the pair are two of the most iconic Argentines, combining to win the Copa America, Finalissima, and the 2022 World Cup. Di Maria scored in all three finals. The winger is currently playing for his beloved Benfica in Portugal but his contract is set to expire this summer. According to ESPN Argentina, Inter Miami has already opened talks with Angel Di Maria over a summer transfer.

Neymar

Like Messi, Neymar also departed PSG but headed to the riches on offer in Saudi Arabia at Al-Hilal. However, the Brazilian icon’s time in Saudi hasn’t gone to plan, with the 32-year-old suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. Another fresh start, while also reuniting with Messi and Co. in MLS and Miami could appeal to Neymar.

Nacho Fernandez

After 23 years, Nacho Fernandez will leave Real Madrid, where he took on Messi, Suarez, Alba, and Busquets at least twice a season for several years. And according to Marca, Fernandez has his sights set on a move to MLS and Inter Miami could be an attractive prospect for the defender. A defensive acquisition could help Inter Miami solidify their chances of winning the MLS Cup. LAFC has also been suggested as a potential landing spot for Nacho.

Sergio Ramos

Messi and Sergio Ramos had several feisty meetings during their many El Clasicos but the pair buried the hatchet and joined forces at PSG a few years ago. Messi left PSG for Inter Miami while Ramos re-joined Sevilla. Ramos, a Real Madrid legend after winning five La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues, could earn a new contract with Sevilla, though.

Andres Iniesta

The iconic midfielder spent years alongside Messi in Barcelona and despite nearing 40, he is still playing football. Iniesta joined UAE Pro League side Emirates Club FC last summer after leaving Vissel Kobe but his contract expires this summer. There was speculation of Iniesta joining Inter Miami earlier this year.