The clock is ticking for Inter Miami, with the MLS primary transfer window set to slam shut this Wednesday, April 23. As the South Florida club gears up for a pivotal stretch that includes the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals, regular MLS action, and a spot in the upcoming Club World Cup, reinforcements are needed — and fast.
Two marquee names have dominated the rumor mill: Kevin De Bruyne and Ángel Di María. De Bruyne, who announced his departure from Manchester City earlier this month, would be a blockbuster addition and one of the biggest European stars to ever make the MLS leap. Meanwhile, Di María is a natural fit among Messi’s close-knit circle already featuring Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez. With coach Javier Mascherano at the helm, the Argentine connection is strong — and growing.
But no move can be made unless a roster spot opens.
That’s where Julian Gressel comes in.
The 2023 MLS Cup winner, who played 32 games last season, has yet to feature in 2025. According to MLS insider Tom Bogert, Gressel has attracted multiple trade offers and is the most likely candidate to be moved before the deadline. Offloading his salary would give Inter Miami the flexibility to register a new international signing.
If a deal isn’t finalized by Wednesday, Inter Miami’s next opportunity will be the secondary transfer window, opening July 24 — but that may be too late. The club is expected to lose players, including Messi, for June’s FIFA international break, and managing the workload of the 37-year-old legend will require added depth up front.
Whether it’s De Bruyne, Di María, or another surprise name, all eyes are on Miami ahead of Wednesday’s cutoff. The next 48 hours could determine whether Messi gets one more world-class partner in crime — or if the Herons have to wait until mid-summer to reload.
