Real Madrid’s struggling attacking midfielder James Rodriguez looks set for a move to Arsenal this summer, as the Gunners look for a more dynamic midfield.
Remember James Rodriguez? Yeah, the former world football starboy and 2014 World Cup hero has faded away at Real Madrid this season, despite being just 28-years-old – which should be his prime. Nobody is doubting the talent of the Colombian international, but he has struggled to stay fit and play consistently over the last couple years, at Bayern Munich on loan last year and now back at the Bernabeu this season.
James has been hot property over the years, gaining interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe pretty much every summer, but the interest is now waning, and a move to Arsenal, who are very much interested in the player, could be the only way to revive his career – at least according to Marca.
It’s true that Arsenal could use a player in the mould of James, although there could be better options out there than a struggling 28-year-old with injury problems.
James could probably add more to the Arsenal attack than Mesut Ozil currently does, as the Colombian is a more dynamic and involved player, who can also score goals more regularly – something Arsenal has been missing in midfield ever since Aaron Ramsey left the club.
Last summer, James Rodriguez was wanted by the likes of Atletico Madrid, Napoli, and Juventus, but this summer, Arsenal might actually be uncontested in the quest for his signature. A deal to sign the attacking midfielder might also come at a much cheaper rate than in previous years.
While James Rodriguez is still a relatively big name in world football, Arsenal might be better off looking at a younger, more reliable player to fill their needs in midfield. There is no guarantee that James will stay fit or perform, and by the time the 2020-21 season starts, the Colombian will be 29 years old. At that age, there isn’t much room for improvement and you pretty much get what you get.
The likes of Joe Willock and Emile Smith-Rowe’s development could also be hindered if this signing goes through, but that will likely depend on whether Mesut Ozil stays at the club or not, along with the potential signing of James.