Real Madrid have reportedly placed a £60million price-tag on playmaker James Rodriguez as speculation links him with an exit this summer.
The Colombian international moved to Madrid after playing a star role at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and enjoyed a successful first season in the Spanish capital.
However, things have deteriorated for him in his second year, as he has struggled with fitness and form and issues both on and off the pitch.
The 24-year-old isn’t expected to be short of offers if he is to move on this summer, but Madrid’s asking price could scare a few interested parties off.
According to The Mirror, Manchester United and Chelsea, who have both been heavily linked with the former Porto and Monaco star, will have to pay up to £60m in order to acquire his services.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain will naturally be linked with making an offer given that they are one of the few clubs in Europe who would have little issue with such a significant transfer fee, but they may be focusing their attention elsewhere in the transfer market this summer.
In turn, Rodriguez will have to weigh up his options depending on which clubs are able to meet Madrid’s reported demands, but it is becoming clearer that perhaps the best thing for his career is to move on and find a new club.
Having struggled to establish himself under Rafa Benitez and Zinedine Zidane, the Colombian star has essentially been crowded out at the Bernabeu with the attacking trident of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema given the nod when all available for selection.
In turn, Rodriguez has been heavily scrutinised for not having as much of an impact as many expected he would, as he has been limited to six goals and eight assists in 23 appearances in all competitions this season.
There is no denying his talent, as he has proven prior to this season that he is one of the most gifted players plying their trade in Europe. However, in order to display his full potential, he will need to find the right club and settle in the right surroundings and that will have to involve an exit from Madrid.