James Rodriguez close to sealing three-year deal with Everton

Everton are reportedly very close to completing a £20m (€22.5m) deal to sign James Rodriguez from Real Madrid.

James is surplus to requirements at Real Madrid and missed pre-season training to resolve his future amid links to Everton.

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti is keen to complete a deal for the Colombian, who has already played under him at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. The pair built a strong rapport and remain on good terms.

Of course, James enjoyed his best career form under Ancelotti in the Spanish capital with 18 goals and 19 assists in 51 appearances.

Everton have agreed a three-year deal to sign James Rodriguez from Real Madrid, claims the Telegraph ✍️

The Ancelotti effect 🤝 pic.twitter.com/C8yHndGhsA

— Goal (@goal) September 2, 2020

So the 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner’s desire to link-up with ‘Carletto’ once is understandable, with the BBC claiming a three-year deal to bring him to Everton is imminent.

A transfer fee of more than £20m (€22.5m) is in place as Everton look to complete a deal before the end of the week.

James’ arrival would mark the first major signing for Ancelotti since becoming Everton manager in December 2019.

He also hopes to sign midfielder Allan shortly from old club Napoli, with a deal expected be to confirmed soon. While talks remain ongoing with Watford star Abdoulaye Doucoure.