When it was announced that Everton had signed James Rodriguez for £20 million, it immediately looked to be a fantastic deal for the club.It was then reported that the fee could actually be £12 million. The deal suddenly looked to be even better.But it since been revealed that Everton actually signed the Colombian for absolutely nothing. Zilch.That much was confirmed by Rodriguez’s former Argentine club, Banfield, who contacted Real Madrid asking for their percentage of the sell-on fee.In a statement, the club said: “Unfortunately for the sale of James Rodríguez from Real Madrid to Everton, Banfield does not correspond to money. "The transaction was made without cost, as if it were a free player. The pertinent consultations have already been made to the two clubs involved and to the corresponding organisations. In all cases they confirmed to us that the club will not receive money as a solidarity mechanism."If it was a fantastic deal for £20 million, how do you describe it when it was effectively a free transfer?
Well, following his performance against West Brom, it looks like one of the best pieces of business in many years.Rodriguez opened his Everton account and was, generally, brilliant during his side’s 5-2 victory over the newly-promoted team. As well as his goal, he registered an assist for Dominic Calvert-Lewin and a brilliant ‘pre-assist’ - if that’s even a thing.In fact, he was so good that Kieran Gibbs decided to hit him in the face on the brink of half-time earning him a red card. West Brom boss Slaven Bilic was then also sent off at half-time for his complaints.But if you were unfortunate enough to miss Rodriguez in action, we’ve got an absolute treat for you - his individual highlights.So sit back and enjoy:
If the eye test wasn’t enough to judge his incredible display, how about some of these numbers:
Meanwhile, his boss boss Carlo Ancelotti admits that the former Real Madrid winner has made the transition to Premier League look easy.
“I’m really pleased for James Rodriguez," Ancelotti said. "A new country, a new league – it was not so easy. But he made it easy because he has a lot of quality. A fantastic player.”
We’re thoroughly enjoying watching Rodriguez in the Premier League.
Long may it continue.