adminMADRID. – James Rodriguez’s spectacular volley against Uruguay was crowned the best goal of the World Cup soccer finals on Monday before he was scheduled to be unveiled as Real Madrid’s latest big money signing last night.
Real had agreed a deal worth between 75 and 80 million euros (US$100-$108 million) with the Colombian striker’s French club Monaco and was set to be presented as a new signing last night.
The 23-year-old Rodriguez became the hot property of the World Cup with his six goals that gave him the Golden Boot for the top scorer.
In a FIFA.com poll, his volley against Uruguay in the last 16 was declared goal of the tournament by more than four million voters – three quarters of those who took part.
Robin van Persie’s diving header for Netherlands against Spain in Group B came second.
Rodriguez collected a ball on the edge of the penalty area with his back to the Uruguay goal.
He chested the ball over his head, turned and fired the volley into the goal via the underside of the crossbar.
The goal established the global reputation of the young playmaker, who cost Monaco 45 million euros one year ago when he was signed from FC Porto of Portugal.
Marca newspaper said Real will pay 75 million euros straight away and up to five million more in add ons.
The fee makes Rodriguez the fourth most expensive player in history behind Gareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo (both of Real) and Luis Suarez who joined Barcelona this month. – AFP.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter