Real Madrid Transfer News: Bayern Munich CEO Denies James Rodriguez Rumours

Bayern Munich chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has quashed rumours that the German giants are ready to sign loanee James Rodriguez on a permanent deal from Real Madrid.

Marca recently reported James' fine form in the first season of his two-year loan spell at the Allianz Arena has so impressed Bayern that they are preparing to take up the €42 million purchase option in his deal.

However, while Rummenigge hailed the Colombia international's contribution and credited manager Jupp Heynckes with getting the best out of him, the Bayern chief denied rumours the club are preparing to sign him permanently, per Robin Bairner of Goal:

"He has developed excellently, especially since Jupp Heynckes took over. It was a very good transfer and I have to congratulate [former manager] Carlo Ancelotti again for that. There are clear conditions regarding his contract and we are not in a hurry."

James, 26, has netted five goals and provided nine assists in 18 Bundesliga appearances in his opening season with Bayern.

His versatility has made him a useful weapon as he has operated in numerous positions, from right and left flank to No. 10.

The former AS Monaco star's most regular position has been as a central midfielder, and it was as part of a central three that he produced arguably his best performance for Bayern in their 6-0 drubbing of Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, per Squawka:

Rodriguez looks to have rediscovered his best form at Bayern following a couple of frustrating seasons with Real.

Given the depth of quality in Los Blancos' attacking midfield ranks—Isco, Marco Asensio, Lucas Vazquez, Gareth Bale and Mateo Kovacic to name a few—it does not seem likely there will be a place for James at the Santiago Bernabeu were he to return at the end of his loan spell in 2019.

Marca's report revealed James has "given the green light to the permanent move [to Bayern]," and it is easy to understand why he might want the switch.

While Rummenigge has denied any current decision on signing the Colombian permanently, he did not rule it out, and it would be no surprise were James to stay at Bayern past the end of his loan spell.