Bayern Munich play down James Rodriguez to Arsenal rumours

Bayern Munich boss Niko Kovac has insisted that James Rodriguez "wants to stay" at the Allianz Arena, amid rumoured interest from Premier League side Arsenal.

The Gunners have been linked with a cut-price loan move for the Colombia international, who has started a combined seven Bundesliga and Champions League games this term.

James has been on loan with Bayern since the start of last season, but there are rumours that the German giants will turn down the chance to sign him permanently from Real Madrid in the summer.

Kovac has said that an early exit is not a possibility, however, telling reporters: "He wants to stay with FC Bayern, as he once said during a fan club visit, he is highly motivated and focused. He can always help us with his quality."

Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic hinted earlier this week that the club will wait until the last moment before deciding whether to keep James on permanently.