James Rodriguez to make La Liga return four years after Real Madrid exit

Four years ago, James Rodriguez left Real Madrid to re-join Carlo Ancelotti, the man that signed him for Los Blancos in 2014, at Everton. Since then, the 33-year-old has been something of a journeyman, and earlier this summer, he terminated his contract at Sao Paulo in order to seek out a return to Europe.

His preference was to return to La Liga, and his wishes are about to come true. In the weeks after the conclusion of Copa America, for which he was tournament MVP, he has been in talks with Rayo Vallecano, and according to Relevo, an agreement in principle has now been reached between the two parties.

James jetted into Madrid earlier this week for negotiations, and all that remains is for his signature on the contract, which will run until next summer. What a signing he will be for Rayo, whose chances of avoiding relegation will be significantly boosted with him in Inigo Perez’s squad for this season.