Chelsea made an approach to Real Madrid midfielder James Rodriguez last month, it has been revealed.

Confidencial Colombia says Real made contact with the Colombian's entourage just before Christmas - and the offer was welcomed by the midfielder.

The talks were held in the aftermath of James' outburst following the Club World Cup final in Japan.

James was leaning towards pushing for a move to London - until the intervention of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo and James both share the same agent - Jorge Mendes - and after learning of Chelsea's approach, the Portuguese spoke with his teammate, urging him to stay.

For the moment, Ronaldo's words have done the trick, with James now favouring playing out the season in Madrid.