Rumor: LA Galaxy looking at James Rodriguez

A big transfer rumor came down a few days ago, with the Spanish-language press claiming the LA Galaxy are pursuing Real Madrid star James Rodriguez.

The initial report came out of Don Balón, the site initially claiming that the Galaxy could swoop for the Colombian if they opt not to pick up Cristian Pavon’s hefty purchase option on his loan, and...if they spend €30 million to buy Rodriguez from Real Madrid, with Real Madrid paying his salary.

That in itself should be a tipoff that this is not happening, at least at that price point. Pavon’s reported purchase option is said to be in the eight figures, but nowhere near the €30 million mark cited for Rodriguez. And while James is a much bigger marquee name than Pavon at this point, the biggest transfer fee paid in MLS history was $17 million by Atlanta United for Pity Martinez. I really don’t think Rodriguez is big enough that he warrants doubling the league’s transfer record.

Also consider the following: With the coronavirus shutdown bringing the global economy down, I truly can’t see the Galaxy paying anywhere near €30 million for Rodriguez. Nor am I convinced they will aim to move on from Pavon at this point.

I think this report is bunk, basically. I think Rodriguez is being shopped by Real Madrid, because he’s been shopped by them for years now. They are desperate to get rid of him. And with the Galaxy being the best-known MLS club in the world, it’s no surprise they are being linked.

Is it possible the Galaxy could sign Rodriguez? It’s possible. I could see them paying somewhere around $5 million for him, and but I think it’s highly unlikely his market will drop that much in the coming months. Also, if Pavon stayed and Jonathan dos Santos stayed and Chicharito stayed it would be the Designated Player shuffle all over again!

So this is a rumor, but don’t consider it anything more.

What do you think? Leave a comment below.