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12th May 2017

Manchester United reportedly agree terms with their first signing of the summer and it’s a doozy

Getting his business done early

Darragh Murphy

Reports in Colombia suggest that Jose Mourinho has already secured his first signing of the summer.

Real Madrid midfielder James Rodriguez is said to be Manchester United-bound, with a pre-contract agreement in place for the 25-year-old to move once the season comes to an end.

Rodriguez has fallen out of favour with Real boss Zinedine Zidane, whose midfield is most often comprised of Isco, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

The claims that a deal is already in place came from Colombian presenter Antonio Casale on his radio show this week but the player is said to be waiting to see whether United are victorious in their Europa League final against Ajax before committing to the switch as he views Champions League football as a necessity.

A fee has yet to be agreed for the player who moved from Monaco for a reported €80 million in 2014 after a memorable showing in the World Cup.

Manchester City were thought to be the sternest competition for James’ signature but, judging by the latest update, their noisy neighbours have won out.