Everton to make shock swoop for James Rodriguez?

Real Madrid forward James Rodriguez has reportedly emerged as a shock transfer target for Everton ahead of the January transfer window.

The Colombia international has been part of Zinedine Zidane's side squad this term but he has managed just three starts in the Spanish top-flight.

He is currently nursing a knee injury which could keep him out of action until next month but that has not ceased the speculation regarding his future.

According to Marca, Carlo Ancelotti is close to being appointed as the new Everton boss and the Italian is expected to be assured with funds to strengthen the squad in January.

It is added that a surprise move for Rodriguez could be on the cards with the Merseyside outfit mulling over a loan approach with the option to buy at the end of the campaign.

Rodriguez has less than two years remaining on his current deal with Los Blancos. He spent the previous two seasons on loan with Bayern Munich, who decided against buying him.