5 possible landing spots for James Rodriguez this summer

Liverpool

Although Liverpool shouldn’t be deemed a likely landing spot for James Rodriguez, they could be just as ideal of a situation for the player as Napoli.

Jurgen Klopp has a knack for getting the absolute best out of skillful midfield players, as former Bayern star Xherdan Shaqiri enjoyed quality spells off the bench for Liverpool this past season.

James is an even better player than Shaqiri and he could be a wonderful No. 10 for the Reds in 2019-20 and beyond. Since James shined in his last season with regular playing time, he still has the quality to be a difference-maker for a team that won the Champions League.

Liverpool will have their sights on finally winning the Premier League, and, in order to top Manchester City, they may need an X-Factor like James to push them over the top.

Continuity and trusting the process are important to Klopp’s method in Liverpool, but James is a consummate professional and the definition of a team player.

Rodriguez once carried Bayern against parent club Real in a Champions League knockout game, and in that same heated contest, he kicked the ball out of bounds for an injured Real player in a show of sportsmanship that may have frustrated some Bayern fans.

Despite his issues with Kovac and Zidane, James has never become a distraction in his career and is one of football’s most beloved players.

With his individual quality, knack for providing assists, and leadership, James seemingly fits the identity that Liverpool have built under Klopp.

The one issue with James is that his lack of speed could hurt Liverpool on counter-attacks, but his brilliant long-range passing and high football IQ also make up for his lack of pace in those situations.

The price would have to be right, but Liverpool have already been linked to James. He could help make Liverpool’s attack even scarier, providing even more scoring opportunities for Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah on the wings.