Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti has admitted his admiration for Real Madrid attacker James Rodriguez.

The Colombia captain is set to leave Real this summer after a disappointing season and expected to be available for a knockdown fee.

Ancelotti worked with James at Real and Bayern Munich and said, "I really like him as a player.

"When I left Madrid, James Rodríguez followed me to Munich. But he followed me as a rumour to Napoli and now he is following me to Everton as another rumour.

"I have to be honest. I really like him, but he is a Real Madrid player and I think he will continue to be a Real Madrid player."

He added: "It doesn't matter if they are young or old; experienced or inexperienced. It is important to have good players. The names that have been mentioned are the same ones that were mentioned a year ago when I was with Napoli. They follow me!"