Lionel Messi's Argentine connection keeps growing! Federico Redondo seals $8m transfer to Inter Miami as MLS giants beat Bayern Munich to son of Real Madrid legend

Lionel Messi's Argentine connection at Inter Miami continues to grow, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the MLS club have wrapped up the signing of Redondo from Argentinos Juniors for $8 million (£6.3m/€7.4m). The 21-year-old had also been strongly linked with Bayern Munich, but they have missed out on a potential deal after deciding against formally placing a bid for during the European January transfer window.

The 21-year-old is the son of former Real Madrid and AC Milan star Fernando Redondo. After graduating from El Bicho's youth system, Redondo made his senior debut for the club in 2022. In the 2022-23 season, he appeared in 45 matches for his club across all competitions, where he scored twice and provided as many assists.

The youngster is set to replace compatriot Facundo Farias in The Herons' squad, with the attacker currently out injured. Redondo is likely to occupy one of the three U22 spots at the club, which means only $200,000 of his salary would count towards their overall cap.

Messi and Co. will play their final pre-season match against the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's boyhood club Newell's Old Boys on February 16 before they kick off their new MLS season against Real Salt Lake on February 22.