Chelsea reportedly lead race for Real Madrid’s James Rodriguez

GRANADA, SPAIN - MAY 06: James Rodriguez of Real Madrid CF in action during the La Liga match between Granada CF v Real Madrid CF at Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes on May 6, 2017 in Granada, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
GRANADA, SPAIN - MAY 06: James Rodriguez of Real Madrid CF in action during the La Liga match between Granada CF v Real Madrid CF at Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes on May 6, 2017 in Granada, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images) /
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Chelsea are in pole position to sign James Rodriguez this summer, according to reports in Spain. The Colombian is set to move on from Real Madrid.

After a thoroughly disappointing stint with Real Madrid, James Rodriguez seems set to move on from the Santiago Bernabeu this summer. Chelsea are apparently in pole position to secure the forward’s signature, according to the Spanish press.

AS report that the Blues are leading the way as James looks to reinvigorate his career. Real Madrid want to chase Kylian Mbappe and have told James that he can essentially negotiate his own exit.

Antonio Conte has already told Diego Costa that he is not in his plans next season. Hence, Chelsea are in the market for a world-class striker to lead an assault on the Champions League next season.

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James could fit the bill, should he be able to rediscover the form that lit up the 2014 World Cup. The Colombian transferred to Real Madrid after the tournament in an eye-watering €80 million move.

However, a foot fracture in his first season set the tone for an underwhelming few years with the Spanish giants. James has been unable to nail down a regular starting spot and thus has failed to fulfill his undoubted potential.

At the age of 25, not all is lost. From his perspective, this move may define his career. James needs to find regular football and a platform to showcase his talents. In that respect, Chelsea seems like the ideal destination.

Michy Batshuayi will be behind him in the pecking order so unless the Blues splash out on another proven marksman, James will be the man.

What do you think of this potential move? Given his lack of football, should James be tasked with leading the Chelsea line immediately? Or should Blues management look for a more in-form striker? Sound off in the comments below!