Arsenal 'step up interest in James Rodriguez'

Arsenal have reportedly stepped up their interest in Real Madrid attacker James Rodriguez.

The Colombia international is widely expected to leave the Bernabeu on a permanent deal this summer, and there is allegedly interest from the Premier League in the shape of Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

However, according to Marca, Arsenal are also firmly in the race for the South American and will battle to secure his signature during this summer's transfer window.

The 28-year-old returned to Madrid over the summer after two years on loan with Bayern Munich.

James has found it difficult to secure regular football during the 2019-20 campaign, though, contributing just one goal and two assists in 13 appearances in all competitions.

The attacker's current deal in the Spanish capital will run until the summer of 2021.