Monaco: We didn't want to sell James

The Colombia international was today confirmed as a Real Madrid player, with the European champions rumoured to be splashin out around €80m for the playmaker.

And the French side’s board member has conceded that the team were hesitant to let one of their stars go.

“Monaco are proud to have helped James Rodriguez reveal his talent to the world as he notably made his mark on the 2014 World Cup in Brazil winning the Golden Boot,” he is quoted as saying on their official website.

“James is a fantastic player who achieved great things with Monaco and the club had no intention to sell the player.

“However the time came when the solution of a transfer was considered to be the most beneficial solution for all parties.

“Monaco are proud to be a part to one of the most significant transfers in football history.

“Monaco are a club that will continue to grow and remain focused on the future. More than ever we have the ambition to strengthen our team and continue to progress for next season.”

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