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Everton fears grow as agent offers high-profile star to three European clubs

Everton’s fears of losing James Rodriguez have heightened after the news that his agent has offered his services to two Italian clubs and one Spanish side.

Rodriguez was a major coup for Everton when they signed him from Real Madrid last summer. His relationship with coach Carlo Ancelotti was crucial. But with Ancelotti having recently departed for Real Madrid, the chances of Rodriguez staying on Merseyside have been called into question.

The attacking midfielder is under contract for one more season. There is the option for Everton to extend that by a further year, but it has also been claimed that Rodriguez could leave for free to reunite with Ancelotti again in Madrid.

The Italian coach seems keen on working with Rodriguez again, but Real Madrid are not his only option if he leaves Goodison Park.

According to Pipe Sierra of Win Sports, agent Jorge Mendes has offered Rodriguez to three European clubs. Atletico Madrid, Napoli and AC Milan could all get the chance to sign him.

A deal could cost anywhere between €10m and €20m, Sierra claims.

The self-proclaimed transfer market expert does not rule out a return to Real either. However, he admits that such an operation would seemingly be more difficult than the other three avenues.

Atletico and Napoli were linked with Rodriguez before he eventually chose Everton. Milan, meanwhile, need to replace Hakan Calhanoglu after losing the attacking midfielder on a free transfer to rivals Inter.

It would be a blow for Everton if they were to lose Rodriguez, who managed six goals and four assists last season. However, he did have injury issues and it seems they have a chance to make a profit on him.

Therefore, if any of the three parties Mendes has approached are interested, Everton could have a decision to make.

Ancelotti wants another Everton man

While Sierra has cast doubt on the likelihood of Ancelotti luring Rodriguez to Madrid, the Spanish giants have recently been linked with another Everton man.

According to Diario Sport, Ancelotti has not just requested the signing of Rodriguez, but also Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

The striker enjoyed the best season of his career under Ancelotti last term, netting 21 goals in 39 games.

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He was undoubtedly Everton’s key man, and his record saw him included in England’s squad for the Euros.

But according to The Sun, the Toffees may have to sell this summer. That’s due to financial pressures brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, which has seen the club lose almost £250million overall.

Ancelotti is, of course, aware of that situation and he may attempt to use it to his benefit. As such, a bid of £50million could be in the works for the 24-year-old.

Given their financial position, the report suggests that figure may tempt Everton into selling.

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