Everton are now odds on favourites to secure the signing of James Rodriguez from Real Madrid this summer.
Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti signed Rodriguez when he was in charge of Real Madrid before re-signing him when he moved to become manager of Bayern Munich.
The forward has been heavily linked with a switch to Goodison Park ever since Ancelotti joined the club back in December.
And now according to multiple reports, the Real Madrid star is believed to be in talks with the Blues over a possible move.
It is said Everton are closing in on a three-year deal for 29-year-old who is reportedly keen on reuniting with his former boss.
The Colombian has been one of several of Ancelotti's former players touted as a possible transfer target this summer, and according to the bookies they see the deal happening sooner rather than later.
The Blues are now 1/8 on with Sky Bet to secure the services of the Real star, with Galatasaray second favourites priced at 10/1.
Third favourites are Lazio priced at 14/1, with Manchester United and Tottenham both priced at 16/1 in the betting.
“James Rodríguez? I like him a lot as a player," Ancelotti said of Rodriguez back in June when asked about a possible move this summer.
"When I left Madrid, James Rodríguez followed me to Munich. But he followed me as a rumour to Napoli and now he is following me to Everton as a rumour.
"I have to be honest – I like him a lot. But he is a Real Madrid player and I think he will still be a Real Madrid player.”
* Take our EFC transfer survey and let us know what you think the Blues need this summer HERE
