Real Madrid playmaker James Rodriguez faces an uncertain future in the Spanish capital, and several clubs should be looking to take advantage of his situation.
At the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Rodriguez saw his stock rise dramatically as he played an influential role in Colombia’s run to the quarter-finals of the tournament.
An €80m move to Real Madrid followed later that summer, and it appeared as though the stylish playmaker would go on to establish himself as one of the top players in Europe.
However, it hasn’t quite worked out as planned as he has been restricted to 23 appearances in all competitions so far this season, albeit injury has played a role too, scoring six goals and providing eight assists.
Former Colombia national team coach Pacho Maturana has insisted this week that there is “no place” for his compatriot at Real Madrid in the current set-up, as reported by AS, and believes that he will have to move on at club level despite the fact that he continues to impress with his national side.
There is discontent on both sides with regards to Rodriguez and Madrid, as after initially impressing under Carlo Ancelotti last season, he has struggled under Rafa Benitez and Zinedine Zidane due to a number of factors both on and off the pitch.
As a result, a fresh start is required for the 24-year-old as ultimately he needs to feel important and have an integral role in the team in order to produce his best football.
With Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale in Madrid, there is simply not enough space for Rodriguez to display all his talent and ability. In turn, that should mean that he will be forced to consider his future in the coming months, and an exit from the Spanish capital is a possibility.
If that is the case, then all the top clubs in the Premier League should be monitoring the situation, as Rodriguez is one of the most talented players in Europe. While Madrid will of course want to recoup their initial outlay if they do decide to sell, rival clubs should be looking to take advantage of his poor form this season and use it to lower his valuation.
The Colombian international has shown his combative and tireless nature previously in his career, and there shouldn’t be any concerns over whether or not he will adapt to the Premier League.
While the likes of Manchester United are screaming out for additional creativity, and have been linked with a move as reported by the Metro, as Arsenal seek a big-name player that can take them to the next level and would fit in with their culture and style of play, perhaps Rodriguez will be one of the top names bandied around in the summer transfer market.