KEY POINTS

  • Manchester United is reportedly the first option of Real Madrid star James Rodriguez once he leaves his current club
  • Rodriguez has reportedly grown tired of Zinedine Zidane's broken promises
  • Rodriguez once hinted at his desire to leave Real Madrid

Manchester United reportedly became the no. 1 option of a promising midfielder due to broken promises from his current club.

Real Madrid and Zinedine Zidane have been plagued by controversies this season. One of the most talked-about issues the legendary coach has been dealing with is his relationship with midfielder James Rodriguez.

The Colombian star caught attention after not getting enough playing time for Los Blancos despite being viewed as a promising talent. And now, reports revealed that Rodriguez is finally done with Madrid and is apparently eager to leave the club.

Sport (via Teamtalk) reported that the La Liga giant is open to selling Rodriguez for a cut-price fee. The report noted that the 29-year-old would come with a €25 million ($28.3 million) price tag this summer should both parties agree to part ways.

His fee reportedly triggered a significant amount of interest from other clubs across Europe as Wolves and Everton are now being mentioned as Rodriguez’s early suitors. However, sources revealed that Rodriguez only has Manchester United in his sights.

United has reportedly already held preliminary talks over a potential deal to sign the former Monaco player. The report also said that Rodriguez has become desperate to leave Bernabeu because he has “grown tired” of Zidane's “broken promises.”

It can be recalled that the French coach had insisted he has high regard for every player in the squad. However, Rodriguez’s playing time seemed to have contradicted to Zidane’s statement. The midfield star has been limited to just 14 appearances this season, eight of which happened in La Liga.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer takes his Manchester United side to Club Brugge in their Europa League last 32  first leg this week
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer takes his Manchester United side to Club Brugge in their Europa League last 32 first leg this week AFP / Glyn KIRK

In an interview with Gol Caracol in June, Rodriguez denied any tension between him and Zidane. However, he hinted at his desire to leave Real Madrid for a club that can maximize his talents.

"There was never a problem. Every coach has his preferences. We have a normal relationship, a working one,” Rodriguez said.

“I look after myself like no one else. I train loads every day. I always want to improve. In the future, you don't know what is going to happen, but if I could choose, I would pick a club where I could show my ability,” he added.

Should Rodriguez decide to pursue a move to United, reports suggested that he would need to make a huge sacrifice as he’s currently on a €7.75 million ($8.7 million) a year contract with Madrid. He will likely be asked to lower his value as sources said the Red Devils are not willing to match his current wages.