Everton 'still in the running for James Rodriguez'

Everton are reportedly preparing to battle Atletico Madrid for the signature of Real Madrid attacker James Rodriguez during this summer's transfer window.

The Colombia international is widely expected to leave Zinedine Zidane's side ahead of the 2020-21 campaign, and a number of clubs have been credited with an interest over the last few weeks.

A recent report claimed that Atletico had emerged as the leading contenders for the playmaker, but according to El Universal, Everton are also 'bidding' for the South American.

Arsenal, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester United are among those to be linked with the 28-year-old, while Juventus are also thought to be in the hunt for his services.

Madrid are believed to be looking for a figure in the region of €40m (£35m) for Rodriguez, who will see his current deal at the Bernabeu expire next summer.

Everton are currently 12th in the Premier League table, although it is unclear whether the 2019-20 campaign will be allowed to safely resume in the coming weeks.