James was linked with a move across the capital last year when his loan at Bayern Munich came to an end but the midfielder ended up staying at the Bernabéu, where he has been an infrequent starter under the Frenchman. Now it seems that the 28-year-old is to push for a link-up with Diego Simeone at the Metropolitano in the next transfer window.
Talks between the clubs were at an advanced stage last year but Atlético's crushing 7-3 victory over Madrid in a friendly in New Jersey led Florentino Pérez to deny the Colombian his exit.
James set for Simeone link-up at Atlético
"James Rodríguez will remain in Madrid and play for Atlético," ran the headline on the front page of Colombian daily El Universal on Tuesday with the report stating that James is set to ask for a move and Madrid will accept €25m for the midfielder. Although Jorge Mendes has said his client will not be leaving Madrid, it is unlikely James will accept another season of inactivity under Zidane and prefers a move to Atlético - where he would potentially play alongside international teammate Santiago Arias - in order to remain in the Spanish capital.
Another option for James is to remain at Madrid for another season and leave in 2021 as a free agent. The Colombian has been linked with a move to David Beckham's Inter Miami while Manchester United are also monitoring his situation.
Source: AS / Patricia Cazón