Rumour Mongering: Rodriguez Rejects Chelsea and Liverpool for Real Madrid Stay

When Liverpool were briefly linked with Real Madrid attacking midfielder James Rodriguez last week, most knew to be skeptical. Even if the 25-year-old Colombian was available, he would likely cost upwards of £70M and he plays at Liverpool’s position of greatest depth, both facts that argued against the possibility of a transfer.

Surprising no one, today reports in Spain claim Rodriguez is in fact going to remain at Madrid for at least the coming season in an effort to prove he deserves to be counted amongst the game’s very best. So far this season, the Colombian star has made two substitute appearances in the league totally 34 minutes of playing time.

He also came off the bench in the second half of Madrid’s 3-2 Supercup victory over Sevilla. Most expect that that is roughly the level of involvement James can expect staying at Madrid this season, and that had been at the root of rumours linking him with a move away, yet for the player, any move would be seen as a step down.

James’ current deal runs through the summer of 2020, so while his value may not decrease significantly over a year because of his contract situation, a season where he isn’t a regular starter could. In recent weeks, along with Liverpool, he has also been linked with a move to Chelsea as a potential Eden Hazard replacement.