Saturday's Real Madrid transfer talk news roundup: Lionel Messi, James Rodriguez, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic

The summer transfer window has now begun, with rumours and speculation continuing to swirl as Real Madrid eye possible reinforcements.

Florentino Perez oversaw a significant overhaul of his squad last summer before focusing more on youth in January. As is always the case with Madrid, though, some of the biggest names in football continue to be linked, even in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up the latest news of possible comings and goings at the Bernabeu.

Saturday morning's Real Madrid transfer talk news roundup:

Real Madrid players 'stunned by Lionel Messi transfer request'

© Reuters

The Real Madrid squad were reportedly left stunned when they discovered that Lionel Messi could leave Barcelona this summer.

On Tuesday evening, it was revealed that the Argentine was bidding to end his long-term association with the Catalan giants, preferably on a free transfer.

While a number of clubs have been linked with the superstar, speculation persists regarding a likely switch to Manchester City.

Having been long-term rivals to Messi and Barca, ESPN claims that many Los Blancos players were left "incredulous" when hearing about the developments.

The report acknowledges that many Whatsapp messages were sent between the Real squad as they reacted to the possibility of the player departing Camp Nou.

Despite contributing 25 goals and 21 assists in La Liga last season, Messi was unable to stop Real from winning the title.

Everton 'agree £4m-a-year deal with James Rodriguez'

© Reuters

Everton have reportedly agreed personal terms with Real Madrid attacker James Rodriguez ahead of a proposed move to Goodison Park.

The 29-year-old, who only made 14 appearances for Los Blancos during the 2019-20 campaign, has been linked with a number of clubs in recent months.

Manchester United and Arsenal were both thought to be in the running for the South American, but Carlo Ancelotti's team have seemingly emerged as the favourites for his signature.

According to Italian journalist Tancredi Palmeri, Everton have agreed a £4m-a-year contract with the playmaker, although the Toffees are yet to agree a fee with Zinedine Zidane's side.

Palmeri claims that Madrid want €25m (£22.5m) for the two-time Champions League winner, but the Merseyside outfit are hopeful of negotiating a discounted price.

Rodriguez's current salary at the Bernabeu is thought to be worth £7m a year.

More transfer news from Real Madrid:

Paris Saint-Germain make opening bid for Sergej Milinkovic-Savic?
Paris Saint-Germain reportedly identify Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic as one of their priority transfer targets. Read more.