Barcelona 'eyeing up shock James Rodriguez swoop'

Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing James Rodriguez if Bayern Munich first take up the option to sign him permanently from Real Madrid.

The Colombia international has started to show glimpses of his best form in recent matches following a tricky start to his two-year loan stint at the Allianz Arena.

Rodriguez was not wanted by Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane, being shipped out during the summer with the option to join Bayern on a full-time basis for a fee of £52m.

According to Spanish outlet Don Balon, Barca are watching developments closely as they are prepared to then pay closer to the £88m mark to lure the 26-year-old to Camp Nou further down the line.

However, the same report suggests that Rodriguez, as well as teammates Thiago Alcantara and Arturo Vidal, all want to leave Bayern as soon as possible.