Inter Miami move the goalposts! Why Lionel Messi may not be joined by Federico Redondo as blockbuster transfer threatens to fall through - explained

According to earlier reports, the Major League Soccer club were close to signing Redondo from Argentinos Juniors for a record $8m (£6m) transfer fee. But now journalist Gaston Edul reports that Lionel Messi's club are now unwilling to pay the amount as they will not be able to shell out that kind of money to comply with MLS's financial regulations.

The journalist further added that the deal is not off yet and the representatives of Argentinos Juniors and The Herons will meet once again on Saturday to negotiate the terms. The Argentine club are likely to give a day's deadline to Inter Miami to return to the earlier agreement or else they will not make the sale.

The 21-year-old is the son of Real Madrid legend Fernando. He has represented the Argentine U23 side and is likely to feature for the national team at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.

Messi and Co. played their final pre-season friendly match against Newell's Old Boys on Thursday where they were held to a 1-1 draw. They will kick off proceedings in the 2024 MLS season on February 22 against Real Salt Lake.