Marca: West Ham ready to bid strong for Real Madrid’s James Rodriguez

James Rodriguez was the star of the World Cup in Brazil, and his efforts were rewarded with a big money move to Real Madrid.

However, after a good start to his career at the Santiago Bernabeu things haven’t exactly gone smoothly since. Rodriguez was an unused substitute in the final of the Champions League last season, which seemed to underline his status at the club.

Reports in Spain suggest there is no doubt over his technical abilities, but Zinedine Zidane isn’t really impressed with his work attitude and commitment to the cause. Marca dedicated their first three pages on Saturday to looking at the situation.

The Colombian international is facing an uncertain future at the club, and Real Madrid are willing to offload him for €80m, reports Marca. Manchester United are said to be leading the race to sign him, whilst Chelsea and Paris-Saint Germain are also lurking around.

Interestingly, Marca believe ‘nouveau riche’ West Ham are also prepared to bid strongly for the player.

The Hammers have been very active in the transfer market, and have offered big money for a couple of strikers. It seems that has led Marca to believe they might as well give it a shot.

Of course it’s doubtful West Ham would offer €80m for Rodriguez… the move would be one of the biggest transfer surprises in recent years. Actually, ever.