Huge blow for Arsenal as Bayern Munich want James Rodriguez to stay

Arsenal’s desire to sign Bayern Munich striker James Rodriguez has suffered a huge blow as Niko Kovac reveals his determination to prevent the player from leaving.

The Colombian international is reportedly set to leave Allianz Arena having been reduced to a bit-part player under Niko Kovac and reports are suggesting the Bundesliga giants hope to sell him for as low as £3m.

The Daily Mirror reported last night that the Bavarians are ready to negotiate a deal with the Gunners over his future.

In the report, the Gunners are keen on bringing Rodriguez to Emirates stadium as Emery hope to capture the World Cup star before the end of the January window.

• Suarez move to Arsenal could force Mkhitaryan out of Emirates Stadium

However, Emery has been dealt a great blow in his decision to sign the 27-year-old as Kovac revealed his plan to prevent the striker from leaving his team.

Speaking to reporters ahead of Bayern’s clash with Hoffenheim, Niko Kovac debunked rumors that suggest his readiness to sell the former Real Madrid star.

According to him, James is a great player who has important roles to play in the team’s mission to leapfrog Borussia Dortmund from the top of the League standings.

He said: “He wants to stay with FC Bayern, as he once said during a fan club visit, he is highly motivated and focused,”.

James is six months from completing his two-year loan deal with the Bundesliga side and he could return to Santiago Bernabeu in the summer.