Report: £90k-a-week Everton star wanted by UCL giants; they want to replace ‘exceptional’ player

By Dylan Walsh

Everton star James Rodriguez is reportedly a target for Serie A side AC Milan.

According to Marca, the seven-time UEFA Champions League winners have identified Rodriguez as a potential replacement for Hakan Calhanoglu. Milan are also keen on Isco, who is set to leave Real Madrid this summer.

Manager Stefano Pioli once labelled Calhanoglu as an ‘exceptional’ player as per Football Italia. The playmaker was key to Milan’s second-place finish in Serie A last season.

The Turkish star left for city rivals Inter Milan this summer following the expiration of his contract.

Whilst there are rumours that Rodriguez is keen to move on from Everton following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian returned to Real Madrid.

The playmaker, who reportedly earns £90,000-a-week according to Spotrac, had a successful first season with Everton last campaign.

However, there are fears that Rodriguez might move on just one year after arriving on Merseyside.

And Milan could be an ideal destination for the Colombian international. The Italian side will compete in the Champions League next season, and the Serie A giants could have the funds to facilitate a move for Rodriguez.

With the South American star on £90,000-a-week, Milan could view this as a financially smart move given what Calhanoglu was previously earning at the club.

And with Rodriguez impressing in the Premier League last season, the playmaker could thrive in Serie A and with the Rossoneri, who bolster the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic in their attack.