British media reports speculated on Sunday that Colombia’s James Rodriguez has been offered a transfer to Manchester United for a fee of €76 million ($86 million) after a disappointing year at Real Madrid.
The Daily Star newspaper claimed that Manchester United have been approached by the Colombian international’s agent Jorge Mendes to broker a deal to sign the out of favor attacking midfielder from Spanish giants Real Madrid.
James was a second half substitute in Real Madrid’s final league game on Saturday as they were pipped to the title by bitter rivals Barcelona, fueling further speculation that the 24-year old may be surplus to requirements at the Bernabeau.
James Rodriguez snides treatment at Real Madrid after Colombia victory
James has endured a torrid time at Real Madrid this year with a muscular tear hampering the beginning of the season and a frayed relationship with previous boss Rafa Benitez also contributing to a dip in form.
The Colombian also failed to cement a place in the starting XI of new manager Zinedine Zidane, making just 26 league appearances scoring 7 goals.
James criticized Zidane about his treatment at the club following recent successful outings with the Colombian national team.
Spanish media reported that this was not well received by the Real Madrid hierarchy and Zidane’s reluctance to dispel transfer speculation has added further weight to suggestions that the exit door looms.
Colombia star James set to remain on the bench for Spanish Classic
The proposed move to Manchester United would break the British transfer record of €75 million which United previously paid Real Madrid for Argentinian Angel Di Maria.
James was purchased by Real Madrid in 2014 from Monaco for €80 million and enjoyed an excellent debut season scoring 17 goals and providing 18 assists in all competitions.
A host of English and European clubs including Arsenal, Manchester City and Juventus are rumored to be monitoring the situation of the Cucuta-born star.
James will lead Colombia in next months centenary Copa America when “Los Cafeteros” take on the USA in the opening game on June 3 before group clashes with Paraguay and Costa Rica.