James Rodriguez: Clubs on high-alert as Copa America best player eyes Europe return

Colombia international James Rodriguez is reportedly set to terminate his contract with Brazilian side Sao Paulo as he eyes a return to European football. 

First playing football on the continent in 2010 after joining Porto from Argentine side Banfield, Rodriguez played in Europe until his exit to Al-Rayan in Qatar in 2021. He made a brief return when he joined Greek side Olympiacos, before returning to South America to play for Sao Paulo. 

The Colombian is not having a great period in Brazil, as he is used sparingly. After showing his quality remains during the Copa America, the former Monaco man seeks a return to European football, according to reports.

James set the Copa America alight. He had a record six assists and led his Colombian side to the competition’s final before they eventually fell victim to World Champions Argentina. 

According to German Garcia Grover, an Argentina-based journalist, the performance in America has lit a fire in the belly of James, and he is prepared to rip his Sao Paulo contract to facilitate a return to European football. 

This claim was also backed by the renowned Fabrizio Romano, who reported that James is set to be available as a free agent, despite having a contract till 2025. 

His destination in Europe is currently undetermined, but a return to Everton is not far-fetched. The midfielder recently hinted at that when he replied, “Last dance?” to a plea by an Everton fan asking him to return “home.”