Five possible destinations for James Rodríguez
The Colombian's comments in Yokohama suggest an exit from the Santiago Bernabeu in the winter market could be a feasible option for the player.
A James Rodriguez departure from the Santiago Bernabeu is very much on the cards after the Colombian midfielder strongly alluded to an exit yesterday in Japan stating that he had offers on the table and seven days to make a decision.
With a first team place in Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid currently unlikely for the player, here are five teams where the Colombian international could end up. James is represented by Jorge Mendes (Gestifute) and this factor may be influential in the midfielder's final destination:
1. Manchester United
Before Pogba's arrival in the summer, UK media outlets reported that Manchester United had placed a 76 million euro offer for the player. Mourinho's United lack a spark of creativity in the centre of midfield and James could provide this service for the side currently sixth in the Premier League some 13 points behind leaders Chelsea. It's been speculated that Anthony Martial could make an exit from Old Trafford and his departure could open the door for the Colombian's arrival in Manchester..
2. Chelsea
A UK tabloid yesterday hinted that Chelsea would be willing to pay 90 million euro for James with Oscar's departure to Chinese Super League Shanghai SIPG subsidising the move to West London. Chelsea first team coach Antonio Conte is known to be an admirer of the Colombian player and the winter window could be the perfect time for the Madrid - London switch.
3. Inter Milan
New Chinese owners Suning are desperate to return the Milan side to a Serie A challenging outfit after years meandering in the wilderness. Italian based sports daily, Corriere dello Sport report that James is on vice president Javier Zanetti's wish list and the signing of James could result in a statement of intent from the club who currently lie 15 points behind table topping Juventus.
4. PSG
Under the guidance of Unai Emery, PSG have yet to stamp their mark on the domestic French league this season with recent acquisitions Ben Arfa and Jesé flattering to decive as the Parisian outfit lie third in Ligue 1. The good relationship between Nasser Al-Khelaifi and Florentino Pérez could be instrumental in the move going forward. The Qatari president of the French club is also frustrated by his club's failure to progress to the latter rounds of the Champions League and the signing of James would bolster the club's midfield.
5. Juventus
The "Old Lady" tried to sign the Colombian this summer following Paul Pogba's move to Manchester United but ended up bringing in Miralem Pjanic from AS Roma. The Bosnian took time to find his stride at the Turin based side and a paring of Pjanic and James Rodriguez would be formidable. Italian sports daily Gazzetta dello Sport claimed that the Serie A side have been following developments relating to James at Real Madrid closely and are still in the running to secure his signature.
