I See James Rodriguez at Real Madrid, says Legendary Colombia Keeper Oscar Cordoba

Legendary Colombian goalkeeper Oscar Cordoba has praised compatriot James Rodriguez and believes that the 22-year-old is good enough to playing Real Madrid.

The Colombian World Cup sensation has been heavily linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu given his excellent performances in Brazil, and it was reported that Monaco are now open to negotiating the sale of the player.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, Cordoba - who holds the record number of caps for a Colombian goalkeeper and went to the World Cups in 1994 and 1998 - believes that Rodriguez has been the player of the World Cup, saying: "I think that, without being a magic player as Neymar may seem, his characteristics and biotype make [Rodriguez] a very special player."

Asked if he sees the player playing for Real, Cordoba said: "I see him at Real Madrid without any problem. He is 22, with much to mature, intelligent, is not wayward and all that will allow him to grow day by day so exorbitant."

The 22-year-old recently revealed his passion for Los Blancos, hinting at a possible future move to the Bernabeu by saying: "It would be a dream to play there, it is the best league in the world. I prefer Real Madrid to Barcelona."

Earlier this week it was reported that Monaco are willing to open talks and Madrid ready to make a major financial effort to sign Rodriguez – although they have no intention of paying more than €60m (£48m).

Due to his superb performances in Brazil, the principality club have increased the player's price to €80m (£64m), having paid around €45m (£35m) to Porto to secure his services last summer. However, Rodriguez's desire to sign for Real could force Monaco to reduce their value to around €70m (£56m).

It seems that the World Cup sensation is guaranteed a regular place in the Real line-up, given that Alvaro Morata has confirmed his imminent move to Juventus and rumours suggest Paris Saint-Germain are preparing a massive €60m offer for Di Maria – which would free up the necessary cash to sign the Colombian.