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What's the story?
According to the reputed media outlet Independent, English Premier League giants Arsenal has inquired about the availability of Real Madrid Galactico James Rodriguez who is currently on loan at Bayern Munich until the end of the 2018/19 season.
Despite interest from Napoli and parent club Real Madrid, who were reportedly desperate to bring reinforcements in the current winter transfer window, the Colombian playmaker is still with the Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich to complete his two-year loan spell from Los Blancos.
In case you didn't know...
The 27-year-old Colombian is on loan from Real Madrid for 2 seasons with an option for Bayern Munich to make the deal permanent.
Since his arrival in Munich, James has proven to be a key piece in the puzzle last season under former Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes but failed to be a regular starter so far under the tutelage of Niko Kovac. Although Rodriguez has only made 5 Bundesliga starts so far this season, he has scored 3 goals.
On the other hand, Arsenal are enduring a fruitful season under new boss Unai Emery as they are currently fifth in the Premier League, three points behind 4th placed Chelsea.
Despite the limited game time this season, James Rodriguez's impact is matched by only a few players in the world. When he is on form, he can change the complexion of the tie in seconds. There is no doubt that a player of his ability will have a huge impact on Arsenal and boost their hopes for the season.
The heart of the matter
There were widespread rumours regarding the fact that James Rodriguez is unhappy with current boss Kovac. Arsenal are surely looking to use this opportunity to secure the services of the Colombian midfielder.
According to the report, sources close to Rodriguez has said that the player is determined to stay put till the end of the season if he is promised more time on the pitch or fight it out in Real Madrid if Los Blancos are interested.
But Real Madrid's reported interest on Christian Eriksen, Eden Hazard and Neymar Jr. may prove vital in James' decision as the arrival of world class players will only hamper his game time at Los Blancos.
Arsenal will be looking to use the opportunity to solve James Rodriguez's dilemma by signing him and they have made contact with his representatives.
Rumour rating: 6/10
With the Champions League knockout tie against Liverpool in the corner, Bayern Munich simply cannot afford to lose a world-class match winner like James Rodriguez.
It is clear that they won't let James go to any club in the middle of a season without a fight.
What's next?
It still remains to be seen how the player fits in Niko Kovac's tactics for the remainder of the season but the player might choose a club where he gets more time to prove his worth instead of warming the bench at Bundesliga.
