James Rodriguez likely to join Al Rayyan from Everton
James Rodriguez is likely to join Al Rayyan as he edges closer to an Everton exit, according to Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra.
The reliable WinSportsTV and W Radio Colombia reporter made it known late on Sunday night that the 30-year-old had flown out of the United Kingdom to seal a move to a club in the United Arab Emirates.
Sierra has returned with another update on Monday morning, claiming the Colombian international midfielder has completed his medical in Dubai and is now likely to join Al Rayyan.
Posting on his personal Twitter account, he said: “James Rodriguez left Dubai, where he underwent medical examinations, and now travels to Qatar
“The Colombian will negotiate personally today with a club, currently unknown. Unconfirmed, they tell me it may be Al Rayyan.
“They will negotiate the salary, then Everton already accepted his departure.”
Finally?
The Toffees wanted Rodriguez gone all summer, and while moves to European clubs fell through, it appears they are going to get their wish after all.
Al Rayyan could likely pay him similar wages to what he earns at Goodison Park after making some serious moves in recent hours.
The former Real Madrid star was not part of the squad that travelled to Aston Villa on Saturday, and it is now clear why that happened.
Rodriguez was always going to follow Carlo Ancelotti out of Goodison Park as Rafa Benitez has never been a fan of his style of play, and the Spaniard will be pleased that he is close to an exit.
Taking his £200,000 wages off their bill is also a financial boost for Everton, and that should allow them to make some significant additions to their squad in January and going forward.
Rodriguez was not able to live up to the expectations on Merseyside despite the initial promising signs, and he will now look to get his career back on track in Asia.
In other Everton news, Benitez details transfer conversation he had about summer signing before Everton arrival.
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