Everton are getting a clear run at signing Real Madrid attacker James Rodriguez.

Real are desperate to find a buyer for James this summer and have set an initial asking price of €40m.

However, formal interest is drying up, with Everton the only club now in contact, reports Fussball Transfers.

Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti has twice worked with James - at Real and Bayern Munich - and is convinced he can help the Colombia captain rediscover his best form.

Talks are already underway with James' minders, with Everton having presented them with a four-year contract proposal in the past week.