Real Madrid Discussion was key in decision to stay

Hebei China Fortune deny James Rodriguez mega offer

James Rodriguez turned down an enticing offer from Premier League side Chelsea after Cristiano Ronaldo advised him to stay in the Spanish capital.

The Blues had made the midfielder a major proposal, while they were also preparing a transfer bid that would have been irresistible for Real Madrid, but the player backtracked after claiming he was considering an exit in the aftermath of the Club World Cup final.

That is according to Confidencial Colombia, with the South American publication revealing that a discussion between James and Ronaldo was key in the 25-year-old's decision to stay put at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.

"We all go through bad moments, but a new year starts for me now," James later said after an excellent performance in the Copa del Rey last-16 first leg against Sevilla.

"I am staying in Madrid."

If the Colombia proves decisive in the final few months of the season then it seems Real Madrid fans will have yet another reason to thank Ronaldo.