Transfer story
Reports have linked the La Liga winner, James Rodriguez with a move away from the Bernabeu this summer. As per latest developments, Chelsea are apparently the frontrunner amongst many other potential suitors to land the 25-year-old Colombian.
The once-highly rated forward – who completed a sensational move to Real Madrid from Monaco after a scintillating World Cup campaign – has now fallen out of favour at the Spanish capital and is keen to start a new journey in his playing career.
The Los Blancos are likely to let go of the player who still has three years left on his contract and is currently being valued at €50m.
Let’s have a look at the stats of the Colombian.
Player stats
The 26-year-old is well known for his versatility and fluidity on the ball that he brings in the middle of the park. His switch up play at the middle and the ability to keep on changing positions, along with his incisive one-touch passes are something to be admired and appreciated.
Although he was handed a squad role with Real this season, the attacker has shown glimpses of his talent and true potential.
The ex-Monaco man made 13 first team starts in his total of 22 appearances for the club in La Liga. In those games, he mustered 8 goals and 6 assists. Not getting regular playtime does not seem to thwart the players’ vision and goal scoring ability.
The player’s composure and ability to find a teammate has been the reason for the stellar 89% pass success average. A trait not seen by many but desired by everyone.
The player’s total contribution of 54 key passes in all competitions shows the impact that he provides the team from the midfield. (Source: WhoScored)
What’ll he offer the club?
The Blues seriously need to bulk up their squad in the summer and the addition of James would not only help the situation but also increase the quality in the entire squad.
Rodriguez’s playing style would be much suited to Chelsea as the midfielder has defensive qualities that Conte demands and also possess raw pace to enable counter attacks for the team.
He could be a long time replacement to the midfield maestro Fabregas, presently 30, at the club.
Worth the Money?
€50m does seem too steep a price tag for the player. He was touted as Ballon d’Or material when he signed for Real Madrid not so long ago and perhaps a move to the more open Premier League could get his career back on track. With Champions League football returning to Stamford Bridge next season, a move for James could very well be a shot in the arm they need to compete with the best in Europe.
