The bookmakers have tipped Chelsea as the favourites to land Real Madrid outcast James Rodriguez this January, Daily Express reports.
According to Sunday’s reports the Blues are keen to sign the Colombian play-maker in a big-money move this winter, as the player admitted to be considering his options over the next week to decide whether he’s going to leave the club or stay at Santiago Bernabeu.
The 25-year-old has only started four La Liga games under Zinedine Zidane this term, and hinted at a possible January exit after Real Madrid’s Club World Cup triumph last weekend.
I can’t guarantee that I’ll stay at Real Madrid after the winter window. I have offers and seven days to think.
A move for Rodriguez wouldn’t come cheap, but in case Oscar’s £60m switch to China pulls through, Chelsea wouldn’t reportedly have to pay more than £13m (£73m in total) for the ex-Monaco player.
Antonio Conte admitted this weekend after Chelsea’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace how he’s planning to meet up with the board and discuss this January’s transfer strategies.
We must be very pleased for the achievement we have reached now, but it is logical that I look with my club for a solution to arrive in a good position at the end of the season.
I don’t know what will happen in January but in this situation it is important to talk with my club – we have a fantastic relationship – but I have my idea and I prefer to discuss this with the club.
Conte has also been linked with a move for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti, who is also unhappy at his team and planning to get out one day.
