JAMES RODRIGUEZ is in advanced talks with Atletico Madrid over a summer transfer, according to reports.
The news will come as a blow to Arsenal and Manchester United who have both been linked with the Colombian playmaker.
Real are willing to sell Rodriguez, as his contract expires in the summer of 2021, meaning he is free to negotiate with other clubs in January.
But he is likely to be shipped out before then to ensure Los Blancos can recover some cash for the midfielder.
And Atletico are leading the way, according to prominent Colombian journalist Javier Hernandez Bonnet.
Speaking on Blu Radio, he said: “If Real want to get some money back, they have to close a transfer.
“James has several cards to play, but we have been told he is convinced by Atletico in all aspects – in the sport and in the staff – and it is 80 per cent sure he will be a new player for Atlético Madrid.”
United were most recently linked with the 28-year-old and were said to be holding talks with his representatives ahead of a £35million move.
But Arsenal are also keen – having tried to sign him on loan in January but the deal fell through as Real could not find a replacement.
Everton, Wolves and even Newcastle were interested in the Colmbian international but a Premier League move now looks unlikely with move across Madrid close.
Rodriguez has made just 63 LaLiga appearances since moving to the Bernabeu in 2014.
This season he returned to the Spanish capital after two years on loan at Bayern Munich but has only appeared 13 times having struggled with injury.
Bernabeu boss Zinedine Zidane has no intention of keeping Rodriquez past this season as he instead wants to recall Martin Odegaard from his loan at Real Sociedad and pair him with and a midfield signing.
David Beckham’s Inter Miami were also said to be in discussions, with the England icon said to have contacted Real president Florentino Perez to discuss the possibility.
