James Rodriguez could be in line for a shock return to Real Madrid, after giving signals he would welcome a fresh start at the Bernabeu.
The Colombian international spent last season on loan in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, although he had signed a new Madrid deal.
James’ agreement in Bavarian was initially set to see him complete a two-year loan, after which his Madrid contract would expire and Bayern would have the option to buy.
The Germans are keen to exercise this clause, but according to reports in Spain James is now looking to return to La Liga. He has dropped hints that he could start anew at the Bernabeu, report Marca.
The move to Bayern was initially orchestrated after the player dropped down the pecking order under previous boss Zinedine Zidane, who was reported to consider James not hard-working enough.
Under Zidane, James missed two Champions League finals in Milan and Cardiff, not even making the bench for the latter.
Zidane announced he would be stepping down at the end of last season, following a third consecutive European title victory in Kiev over Liverpool.
Interesting that James’ reported change of heart also came after Ronaldo called time on his Madrid career after nine trophy-laden years in Spain to move to Juventus.
Ronaldo’s departure means space has been freed up in the starting XI, though Madrid are highly likely to seek out a high profile, big money replacement for their idolised No 7.
The Champions League holders have already been linked with a £150million move for Chelsea’s Eden Hazard, while former Barcelona man Neymar remains firmly on the radar of the Madrid hierarchy.