Man United Reportedly in James Rodriguez Talks, Eye Star to Replace Wayne Rooney

Manchester United will reportedly launch a move for Real Madrid misfit James Rodriguez as a replacement for Everton-bound club captain Wayne Rooney.

According to The Independent's Miguel Delaney, Los Merengues may be open to selling Rodriguez as they attempt to raise funds in order to fund a push for AS Monaco striker Kylian Mbappe.

United were recently linked with a move for Real striker Alvaro Morata before switching their attention to Everton frontman Romelu Lukaku, wrote Delaney, although that isn't said to have hurt their chances at landing Rodriguez.

Sky Sports News reporter Kaveh Solhekol suggested on Friday Rooney's return to boyhood club Everton is nearing completion, meaning the Red Devils will be in a better position to search for his replacement:

According to Delaney, United manager Jose Mourinho has held reservations over signing Rodriguez, but executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward is said to believe his marketability could make him a worthy signing.

Despite the fact he holds a fringe position at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, the Colombia international has enjoyed his fair share of highlight moments in Spain, convincing blogger Liam Canning he would be a good addition at United:

Rodriguez started in 20 of his 33 appearances for Los Blancos last season and scored 11 goals in the process along with 13 assists, per Transfermarkt, proving himself to be a threat in front of goal when handed the opportunity.

He can also feature on both flanks and in the attacking-midfield role Rooney has come to adapt as his own in the later stages of his career, although Juan Mata's place in the squad means a wing role may be more likely.

Real's desire to sign wonderkid Mbappe will be a major factor in the process, but the €70 million (£61.9 million) Real are said to be seeking for Rodriguez's signature, per Delaney's report, would be a huge aid in affording the Frenchman's transfer fee.

United's transfer strategy this summer appears to echo that of last year, said James Robson of the Manchester Evening News, with the club chasing world-class specialists as opposed to smaller signings:

In truth, Rooney's lack of impact on the United first team last season means the veteran could leave without much need for a replacement, but the club is looking to upgrade in an attempt to reclaim their former world-beater status.

Despite a lack of chances stunting his progress in Spain's capital, former Porto and Monaco star Rodriguez could rediscover his best at Old Trafford as one superstar potentially makes way for another to take his place.