Lionel Messi may have been knocked back in a bid to bring another familiar face to Inter Miami, with Marcos Rojo set to remain at Boca Juniors.

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• Argentine icon wanted countryman alongside him
• Has already been joined in America by familiar faces
• Experienced defender willing to honour his contract

• One Argentine star in the United States had been hoping to see another join him in Florida, with Messi reportedly sounding out Rojo regarding a possible move to DRV PNK Stadium. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has already been joined in America by former Barcelona team-mates Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez.

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  Former Manchester United enforcer Rojo would have added more experience to Inter Miami’s defensive unit, with the combative 33-year-old never one to back down from a challenge. He is, however, poised to remain in his homeland for another 12 months.

• That is because TyC Sports reports that Rojo is willing to honour the final year of his contract at Boca. He posted on Instagram as 2023 came to a close: “One more year together and may 2024 be much better for all of us.” That is considered to be a nod towards remaining at La Bombonera – with the no-nonsense defender being assured that Boca will piece together a competitive squad for the new season.

• Rojo’s decision may lead to Messi and Inter Miami looking elsewhere for reinforcements – with Brazilian outfit Palmeiras also said to have been knocked back – with Tata Martino’s side readying themselves for a 2024 MLS campaign that is expected to see the Herons compete for domestic and continental honours.