Everton completed a major coup this week, landing playmaker James Rodriguez from Real Madrid.
The 29-year-old has signed a two-year deal at Goodison Park with the option of a third year, and reunites with Carlo Ancelotti.
Rodriguez worked with the Italian at both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, and that reunion played a big part in the move.
That may not be the only reunion Rodriguez has at Everton, as the Toffees are allegedly keen on one of his international teammates.
The Sun reported in August that Everton are pushing to sign Atletico Madrid right back Santiago Arias in a £12million move – and he is keen on joining.
Arias was signed my Everton director of football Marcel Brands at PSV Eindhoven, so Everton’s interest isn’t a huge surprise.
Arias, 28, plays with Rodriguez on the international stage, so what does he think of Everton’s new marquee signing?
Earlier this summer, Arias was asked by Marca about Rodriguez joining him at Atletico, and he admitted that he admires the playmaker for his achievements and his success as a Colombian.
“He’s achieved a lot in his career and, as a fellow Colombian, I have a lot of admiration towards him,” said Arias, adding that he would welcome him to Atletico.
Instead, the pair could now join forces at Everton, and hope to bring their international link to Merseyside.
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