Manchester United Plan £63m Bid to Sign Real Madrid Target James Rodriguez

Manchester United are preparing a bid to sign Real Madrid target and Colombia World Cup star James Rodriguez in the ongoing summer transfer window, according to the Express.

The AS Monaco attacker had an impressive World Cup in Brazil, scoring six goals and managing two assists. His form in the summer tournament has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe.

The Champions League winners had a verbal agreement with Rodriguez's agent over a potential transfer to Real. The player has expressed his desire to join the Spanish capital club this summer.

Real can make an approach for Rodriguez if they allow their player Angel di Maria leave Santiago Bernabeu. Di Maria is a target for both United and Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain.

PSG have recently cooled their interest in signing the Argentine international, making the Red Devils the only option left for Di Maria. Real are looking for a fee around £47m for the winger's services as they are planning to use those funds for Rodriguez.

However, Di Maria is not looking to join the Premier League outfit as they cannot offer him Champions League football next season. United are now looking for alternatives and their manager Louis van Gaal, who officially took charge at Old Trafford on Wednesday, is targeting Rodriguez.

The Colombian international, 23, is young compared with DI Maria and can play as a winger or an attacking midfielder. However, any move from United could see them break the bank in acquiring Rodriguez's services.

Monaco signed Rodriguez from FC Porto last summer and are looking for a fee around £63m to part ways with their star player. The Express claims Liverpool are also in the frame for signing the Colombian attacker.

Meanwhile, any move from either Real or United for capturing the World Cup star would be further delayed.

The Ligue 1 side will travel to Colombia and United States as part of the pre-season tour. According to French newspaper Le 10Sport, Rodriguez will miss the Colombia leg and will join his teammates on 21 July in Miami.