Atletico Madrid are reportedly confident in their pursuit of unwanted Real Madrid attacking midfielder James Rodriguez after the English transfer window closed earlier this week.
Rodriguez returned to Real Madrid over the summer following a two-year loan spell with Bayern Munich, scoring 15 goals in 67 appearances for the Bundesliga champions.
The attacking midfielder, who was considered surplus to requirements by Zinedine Zidane in 2017, is reportedly determined to secure a move to the Wanda Metropolitano this month.
According to Marca, Atletico believe that a deal for Rodriguez has been made easier by the English transfer window's conclusion on Thursday, diminishing the number of potential buyers for the 28-year-old.
Zidane, just like two years ago, does not view Rodriguez as part of his plans, with the Frenchman determined to hand chances to youngsters such as Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo this season.
Los Blancos were even reportedly prepared to include the Colombia international as part of a cash-plus-player deal for Paul Pogba, but Manchester United were in no mood to sell their star midfielder.
Leo Nieboer
