James Rodriguez drops big hint that suggests he’s set to leave Everton for Atletico Madrid

James Rodriguez has further fuelled speculation regarding his future at Everton.

The Colombian playmaker has been heavily linked with a move away from Goodison Park this summer and has dropped a big hint his departure may be imminent.

At a glance: 5 key points

- Rodriguez has reportedly been told that he is not in manager Rafa Benitez’s plans at Everton.

- He joined Everton on a free transfer from Real Madrid in September 2020 and has one year left on his contract.

- Rodriguez missed the opening-day win over Southampton because he was isolating in accordance with COVID-19 protocol.

- He has been linked with a number of top European clubs and has two weeks to complete move before the transfer window closes.

- Rodriguez has been vocal on social media regarding his future on Merseyside.

What’s been said?

Rodriguez hasn’t exactly been keeping a low profile while talk of an Everton exit has been in the headlines.

The former Bayern Munich player has addressed his future on a couple of occasions via online streaming platform Twitch.

Rodriguez also recently took to Twitter to post in Spanish: “‘Nunca dejes de creer” - translated as “Never stop believing”.

It was accompanied by emojis of a grinning face, and an arrow saying ‘soon’, plus a picture of himself smiling.

In a Twitch broadcast, he admitted he won’t be involved in Saturday’s trip to Leeds United.

Why does this matter?

‘Never stop believing’ is the club slogan of current La Liga champions Atletico Madrid.

Diego Simeone’s side have been reported as a potential destination for the 30-year-old if he is to leave Everton.

He’s currently 2/1 with bookmakers to join Atletico before the transfer window closes on Tuesday, August 31.

Should Rodriguez complete the move, it would see him return to the Spanish capital, having spent six years at Atletico’s arch rivals Real Madrid between 2014-2020.

Background 

According to reports, Rodriguez has been told that he is not in Benitez’s plans at Everton.

The Goodison Park chief has doubts about whether the ex-Monaco attacking midfielder can deliver the intense style of football he wants to play.

Benitez is also believed to be concerned that the Toffees are not getting full value for money when it comes to Rodriguez.

He supposedly earns around £200,000 per week but missed 15 Premier League matches last season.

With Benitez operating on a budget, he could free up funds by removing Rodriguez from the wage bill.

He also has a year remaining on his Goodison deal, which means Everton would net a fee should Rodriguez be transferred.