James Rodriguez 'set to leave Madrid & only wants to join Atletico this summer'

James Rodriguez is determined to leave Real Madrid to join rivals Atletico Madrid this summer, according to reports.

The 28-year-old has long been linked with a move away from the Bernabeu and almost joined Diego Simeone's team last season but has also had interest from several Premier League teams.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Zinedine Zidane is keen to let the forward go and with Atletico Rodriguez's first-choice destination.

But the report also claims that Atletico may not have the financial power to get a deal done due to the financial implications of the coronavirus pandemic.

Rodriguez is out of contract next year but would supposedly have to significantly lower his wage expectations in order to make the move to the Wanda Metropolitano.

The forward has not played for Madrid since October after picking up a knee ligament injury.

However, he recovered from that setback in January but has not been able to force his way into Zidane's plans and was expected to leave in the winter transfer window.

He had been linked with a move to Everton following Carlo Ancelotti's appointment with the pair having worked together at Bayern Munich.

Arsenal are thought to have shown an interest but could also be held back financially.

The report claims Madrid are not prepared to 'give away' their player but are keen to ensure he does not leave on a free transfer at the end of his deal in 2021.