James imitates Morata

Latest news in Italy. James Rodríguez, a 35-year-old Colombian attacking midfielder, is negotiating with Avellino to become the new player of the Italian club. The agreement is advanced, according to MARCA, and Alessandro Nesta has already spoken directly with the player; only the economic conditions need to be finalized for the announcement to happen soon.

James Rodríguez speeds up his arrival at Avellino

The operation has been ongoing for about a month. Avellino's sports director, Mario Aiello, initiated contacts with intermediaries and then progressed with James' environment, who was waiting for offers from top division clubs.

James has been free since July 1, when his time at Minnesota United ended. The Colombian had signed a six-month contract with the American team in February, and his priority was to arrive in rhythm for the 2026 World Cup.

The Italian transfer market is closed, but that does not hinder the operation as James is a free agent. Additionally, he holds a Spanish passport, a condition that facilitates his registration in the Italian Serie B.

The main outstanding point is economic. MARCA indicates that the positions are very close, although the numbers still need to be finalized before completing the transfer. A specific salary figure or the duration of the potential contract has not been disclosed.

Exclusive: Avellino is in negotiations with James Rodríguez. https://t.co/jMVZizrAb1

— Matteo Moretto (@MatteMoretto) September 8, 2026

Nesta wants James Rodríguez to fight for promotion

Alessandro Nesta's arrival on Avellino's bench took place in June with a two-season contract. The Italian coach took on the project with the aim of competing for a return to Serie A.

Avellino has started the season in a good position. After a 1-0 victory over Modena on September 6, Nesta's team remains in contention for top positions in Serie B.

James' presence would add experience to a squad that already welcomed Walid Cheddira from Napoli. La Gazzetta indicates that the club is evaluating the financial effort the operation would entail, while also considering the commercial impact of signing the Colombian.

The move aligns with a recent trend of veterans seeking prominence in the Second Division. Álvaro Morata, aged 33, joined Leganés on loan from Como at the end of August and made his debut on September 4 with 66 minutes against Las Palmas.

James Rodríguez's Next Step

James left Minnesota after playing in the World Cup with Colombia and has amassed 127 goals and 161 assists in 516 club matches during his career, according to MLS records. His last contract ended in June, and since then, he has been without a team.

The Colombian's priority now is to find a destination that allows him to play consistently. La Gazzetta suggests that this need also influences his openness to competing in Serie B, after the proposals from other markets failed to convince him.

Avellino expects to finalize the last financial details in the coming days. If the negotiations continue at the current pace, James Rodríguez could become the next signing for Nesta's team at no transfer cost, although the definitive agreement between the parties is still pending.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, James imita a Morata