The 2 clubs that want to sign James Rodriguez in January

The Colombian midfielder will not renew his contract with León and will become a free agent in the coming months.

Javier Parra Peña | 1 Nov 2025 | 01.00
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The 2 clubs that want to sign James Rodríguez in January
The 2 clubs that want to sign James Rodríguez in January

La Liga
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Barcelona Elche
02/11/25 18:30:00
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Colombian midfielder James Rodríguez is close to finishing his time at Club León at the end of the Apertura 2025 tournament, and there are two Mexican contenders who have decisively entered the scene. Both América and Tigres have expressed interest in acquiring his services.

The main reason: the renewal with León did not progress, leaving the "10" free to negotiate with any club, and the two giants of Mexican football aspire to keep him in Liga MX.

James Rodríguez and his departure from León

James Rodríguez arrived at León with high expectations, but throughout the season, discrepancies between his salary and performance created internal tensions. The board decided not to pursue the renewal, and the player will soon be a free agent. This fact makes him a desirable target nationally and internationally. The local advantage lies in his familiarity with Liga MX, its idiosyncrasies, and the football conditions in Mexico.

Real interest from América and Tigres in James Rodríguez

América and Tigres have taken discreet steps: initial contacts with James' representatives to understand his conditions. The Azulcremas and the Tigres are evaluating the possibility of freeing up "non-developed" spots to accommodate the salary of the former Real Madrid player. Currently, there is no formal offer on the table, but the interest is solid. At América, his arrival would be a media coup, reinvigorating the project, while Tigres would seek consolidation with a renowned player of international experience.

The 2 clubs interested in signing James Rodríguez in January

James' current salary is noteworthy: he ranks third among the highest-paid players in the tournament, posing a significant commitment for any potential contract. Neither América nor Tigres currently have a player in their squad with such salary capacity, meaning they will need to craft a compelling offer beyond just sporting prestige.

Options and Challenges in James Rodríguez's Signing

The signing of James Rodríguez by América or Tigres faces several obstacles. Firstly, they must persuade the player to choose Mexico over foreign offers, including from MLS. Secondly, they need to convince him with a project, playing time, and status. Thirdly, they must make the financial agreement viable without disregarding tournament regulations. While his status as a free agent facilitates the move, it does not guarantee a straightforward transfer.

For James, staying in Mexico would mean continuing his career in a familiar environment, with the chance to lead an ambitious project at a major club. Players often seek renewal in dynamics, not just in money.

The outcome is still uncertain. América and Tigres are clear contenders, but they must act decisively if they intend to secure the Colombian midfielder before the international market comes into play. The Apertura tournament marks the end of a cycle at León and potentially the start of a new chapter with James as the star figure in Mexican lands.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 2 clubes que quieren fichar a James Rodríguez en enero