While Isco and James Rodríguez arrived at Real Madrid with big price tags and equally big reputations, it seems that the club is ready to write off their investment in the two players already.
According to reports in Spanish sports daily Marca, the club has no doubt that the two players are extremely talented, but rather that they are not putting in the effort required.
After a loss in the Madrid derby on the weekend, Real Madrid now sit 12 points behind leaders Barcelona in the league, and four points behind cross-city rivals Atlético too.
The paper, which has close links to club president Florentino Pérez, claims Madrid will reassess the situation with the players after the 13 remaining games of the season, a figure which could rise to 18, depending on how they progress in the Champions League.
A table shows the trophies won by Real Madrid under Florentino Pérez; 7 from a possible 37 over 13 years.
The concern over the players focuses on the fact that James has not responded to either a tactical and stern coach in the form of Rafael Benítez, nor a more approachable figure in the form of Zinedine Zidane.
Doubts have also been raised over the pair's "sporting performance, mentality and dedication, both on the pitch and off it".
Madrid still believe they can get in the region of €80 million for James should they choose to sell him in the summer, making their money back on his original transfer fee, while they are also confident that they could get between €40-45 million for Isco.
The paper claims that Manchester United would be the most likely destination for Rodríguez, and Manchester City or Arsenal would take a chance on Isco.
That would also leave the door open to new recruits coming to the club in the summer, with Pérez believed to be looking at the possibility of signing Paul Pogba from Juventus or Eden Hazard from Chelsea.
The news follows speculation that Cristiano Ronaldo may also be looking to leave the Santiago Bernabéu, which Ben Lyttleton addressed on Off The Ball on Monday.
Via Marca
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