James Rodriguez targets Avellino as Serie B club chase promotion

Serie B side US Avellino, sitting fifth after two wins and a draw in the opening three games, are hunting a creative spark as they aim for promotion, and they have identified free‑agent James Rodriguez – who has been without a club since June following a brief three‑month spell with Minnesota United in the MLS – as the ideal candidate.

Avellino finished eighth in Serie B last term, just missing the play‑off places, and now sit fifth after the first three fixtures, keen to add experience to their promotion charge.

Allegiant manager seeks experience

Alessandro Nesta, the former AC Milan defender who took charge of the Wolves in June on a two‑year deal, has spoken directly with Rodriguez, hoping the Colombian can inspire a Serie A promotion push.

Financial terms still to be settled

The agreement is reportedly close, but financial terms are yet to be finalised, leaving that last obstacle between the playmaker and a move to Italy.

Rodriguez, the 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner, last appeared on the pitch at the 2026 World Cup, a moment captured by Getty images. He made 125 appearances for Real Madrid, scoring 37 goals and providing 42 assists, and won LaLiga and the Champions League twice. His brief MLS stint with Minnesota United in the USA yielded eight appearances without a goal, as noted by GETTY.

If the deal goes through, Rodriguez will become the 14th club of his senior career, joining a squad that aims to climb into the promotion play‑offs. Un club such as Avellino will rely on his experience to lift their standing.

Avellino’s early season form and Nesta’s ambition mean the Colombian could be pivotal, but paperwork must clear before the next league round.