Is the time right for James?

The breakthrough star of the world cup in Brazil, James Rodriguez is now the hottest property in Europe. Columbia's number 10 managed to capture the imagination and hearts of fans in Brazil and his performances on the world's biggest footballing stage has meant several clubs are battling for his signature. But is the time right for a move?

Having been on the European footballing scene for some time now and only at the age of 23, James' talent is no secret. Those who watched him at Porto knew it was only a matter of time before he truly exploded on  the world scene as he so often glide round players and create chances. Taken to Monaco in a deal that also brought Porto team mate Joao Moutinho to France, the Columbian didn't truly replicate the form he produced at Porto despite still impressing. If he stays at Monaco, there will certainly be more to come from the attacker but his days there may be numbered.

Real Madrid are the team that are suggested to be very close to agreeing a mammoth deal for Rodriguez. But a move to Real Madrid may come too soon. The Columbian is still at the tender age of 23 and will need game time to make sure he continues to develop as a player, something he might not get at Real Madrid. Furthermore, Madrid got rid of Mesut Ozil, a player in James' favoured position as he did not fit Ancelotti's tactics and brought in young starlet Isco, who also is similar to James and has not fit into the Italian's tactics and didn't feature too much as a result.  

Rodriguez finished as the tournament's top goal scorer

Ancelotti favours a 4-3-3 formation and has meant wingers like Di Maria have had to adapt their game to fit the formation, something James would have to do to succeed in Madrid. But, with Di Maria's future at Madrid hanging in the balance it is more than likely that Rodriguez will be at least contacted by the club. Granted, James is a flexible player who could slot into the three in midfield or in two flank positions in the trio attack but it would mean he is not playing in the position he is best, behind the striker in the number 10 role.

James Rodriguez won't come cheap too. Monaco aren't looking to sell and with the money they have in the bank hardly need to cash in either. His performances at the world cup will sky rocket his market value and on top of that, the transfer market is currently in a state of inflation as clubs are paying more and more money for top players and Rodriguez fits that top player bracket. All considered and Madrid's tendency to bust the bank for players, there is no reason why we could not be on the verge of yet another world record transfer.

Rodriguez's value is at a all time high and following his performances at the world cup, Real Madrid are going to be seriously considering the Columbian. With Barcelona acquiring Luis Suarez they will also be looking to rival that with a big name of their own and Rodriguez fits the bill. Could we see another huge signing this summer?