Though the defence has been Liverpool’s primary concern this season, the Reds are reportedly eyeing a massive move for Real Madrid attacking midfield star James Rodriguez this summer. The Columbian international hasn’t had the best of seasons this year as he lost his place in the good books of Real manager Zinedine Zidane, and therefore a first team place.
Liverpool are expected to take advantage of the situation with Jurgen Klopp locking his target on the player. Despite scoring a whopping 61 goals in the league (highest among all teams this season), Liverpool have found themselves running out of depth when the manager had to replace someone from the first team. One of the prime examples of that would be Sadio Mane’s absence and Liverpool’s temporary crumble.
Rodriguez will surely be a huge level up for the Reds if they manage to land him this summer. The 25-yeard-old has managed to net five times and assist 12 times in 22 appearances, out of which he came off the bench nine times. James Rodriguez is considered one of the best playmakers around the world.
Liverpool are currently at the fourth position in the Premier League table leading Arsenal and Manchester United by six and four points respectively, playing two more games than them. Qualifying for the Champions League remains their main aim this season after missing out on the title, FA Cup and EFL Cup. And their pursuit for the 2014 World Cup star will hinge significantly on their European qualification.
An academy product of Columbian side Envigado FC, James was soon picked up by Argentine under age side Club Atlético Banfield. His talents were soon realised by European giants FC Porto, who bought him from Argentina in 2010. Three brilliant spells there and French side Monaco landed him 2013. It was followed by his career defining 2014 World Cup, which paved the way to Santiago Bernabeu soon after.
In his 102 games for Real Madrid that James has played in the last three seasons, he has scored 30 goals and 40 assists. However, his appearances have reduced since his first season and it is the time he leaves Los Blancos for better chances.
And Liverpool will undoubtedly give the player that. However, the Reds’ financial prowess to land him could be questionable. The biggest transfer record by Liverpool so far has been that of striker Andy Carroll for £35 million, while Real aren’t likely to part ways with James for less than £65 million. Phillip Coutinho is their highest paid player at £150, 000 weekly wage currently and it goes without saying that they will have problems fitting in another player, who earns around £120, 000 in weekly wage.
