Latest reports are claiming that James Rodriguez could be on his way to England with Arsenal and Liverpool being amongst his preferred destinations. The Colombian who rose to prominence after an impressive outing in the 2014 FIFA World Cup made a big money move from FC Porto to AS Monaco.
However, the move never fitted him and Real Madrid came swooping for him in no time. As is the case with many top players, James failed to establish himself as a star at the Bernabeu. Real is not the easiest place to perform in. James despite having a healthy goal and assists to games to ratio was never seen by current boss Zinedine Zidane as an integral part of the team.
The dynamic Colombian was moved on to Bayern Munich on a two-year loan with a permanent clause inserted as well. He initially failed to adjust to life in Munich but has now risen to prominence and is a star in the Bavarian club.
It is, however, believed that James still wants to return to Madrid and prove himself. However, he would only consider a move back if the club parts their ways with Zidane, who is under immense scrutiny at the moment. If Zidane were to stay on, it is believed James would instead prefer to opt for a move to England with Arsenal being a top favourite.
The natural question that awaits is how will the Colombian fit into the system at Arsenal. Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Mesut Ozil’s presence would deem the Colombian to be a surplus to Arsene Wenger’s requirements.
James is a creative spark whose talents are better utilised with the ball under his feet. And in there lies the problem. Arsene Wenger has already delegated all of the creative responsibilities to Ozil, Mkhitaryan and Jack Wilshere. While the trio is adept in formulating the Gunners attack, James will be demoted to a role of an out-and-out winger, a role he is not comfortable with.
The North London club has already seen Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain make the exit over the last 2 transfer windows and are in dire need of a pacey presence to complete the attacking jigsaw.
Not only will James cost a significant amount, Arsenal will have to resort to choosing between their current players and the wantaway Columbian. This would mean that Wenger would be wise to turn down a move for the talented attacker and instead opt to bring in an out and out wide man to complete his team.
