Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest have offered the shock chance to sign the ‘superstar’ striker for free.

And while they didn’t spend that much, Forest also bolstered Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad, securing star duo Elliot Anderson and Nikola Milenkovic, among three others.

That being said, Football TBR understands both clubs have now been approached about the availability of 33-year-old James Rodriguez.

Having just finished his Copa America campaign with Colombia, Rodriguez has now left the Brazilian side in Sao Paulo a year early.

TBR understands that Rodriguez is now keen to move back to Europe and would welcome the chance to return to England in particular.

The Colombian ‘superstar’ previously spent the 2021/22 season in the Premier League under Carlo Ancelotti, making 26 appearances.

Rodriguez scored six goals and provided four assists during his time at Goodison Park, but was hampered by a calf injury throughout the season.

Colombian star James Rodriguez wants a return to the Premier League

TBR can confirm that Rodriguez’s agents have spoken to several camps in Europe, feeling that the midfielder still has a lot to offer.

Several Premier League clubs have been approached making them aware of the availability of Rodriguez – who could relish the chance to improve Everton’s results.

TBR can say that Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham, Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers are all among those who have been contacted.

Rodriguez is also interested in Spain and Sevilla are keen on a move.

And failing that, the Colombian could have a path to join former Manchester United defender Raphael Varanae by heading to Cesc Fabregas’ Como in Italy.

Of course, in a summer where Villa found a temporary solution for Philippe Coutinho to head to Vasco da Gama on loan, it would be a surprise if the club decided to sign another expensive player in his senior years.

That said, perhaps Forest could see an opportunity for Rodriguez to provide back-up to Morgan Gibbs-White throughout the season – even if it’s all very hypothetical at the moment.

That said, Emery has recently been given credit for turning a Villa striker around and could perhaps relish another challenge.

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