Chelsea transfer news: Blues 'ready £75m bid' for James Rodriguez as Ruben Loftus-Cheek is linked to West Ham

The latest transfer stories from Stamford Bridge on Sunday 18 December

James Rodriguez has reportedly grown unhappy at the Bernabeu (Getty)

League leaders Chelsea are allegedly preparing a £75m bid for Real Madrid’s James Rodriguez and will bankroll the transfer using the £62m they’re set to receive from the sale of Oscar to Shanghai SIPG.

With the Brazilian on his way out, Antonio Conte is keen for Rodriguez to fill the vacancy in this January’s transfer window.

Chelsea sought to bring the Colombian to the Bridge last summer but their efforts were blocked by Madrid.

But with Rodriguez growing increasingly frustrated at the club, the Blues will now fancy their chances, the Daily Mirror reports.

Rodriguez has only been involved in eight La Liga games this season as he continues to remain sidelined under Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane.

The 25-year-old is said to been keen on a move away from the Bernabeu but Madrid won’t give up the Colombian easily, especially with Gareth Bale out until February with an injury.

Meanwhile, Oscar’s move to Shanghai looks to be nearing completion.

According to Willian, the midfielder has already said his goodbyes to his Chelsea team mates.

Speaking to ESPN Brazil, Willian said: "[Oscar] has already said goodbye. He's a good friend and a great player.

"I wish him and his family all the best. A footballer's career can be quick, and when an offer like this comes in you have to think of your family.

"You want to be prepared for when you have to stop playing."

Ruben Loftus-Cheek could be another Chelsea player on his way out from Stamford Bridge – but only on a temporary basis.

West Ham have reportedly opened talks with the Blues over a January loan deal for the 20-year-old.

Loftus-Cheek has made just one substitute appearance in the Premier League so far this campaign and is longing for more first-team opportunities.

The Express claims that Slaven Bilic is keen on a short-term deal as he looks to get West Ham’s season back on track.

Conte recently opened up about Loftus-Cheek’s place in the Chelsea squad. “I'm sure that Ruben has great potential," he said earlier this week.

"I think it's important to show this, to improve a lot on different aspects. Now he's in our squad. This season, he had a few injuries.

"But now he's in good form and I count on him.

"There will be a moment when I speak with my club and take the best decision, but I count on him because I think he has good potential."