The Colombian ace has been named as a potential exit from Everton after Rafael Benítez's appointment as coach.

Once again, Carlo Ancelotti's future will have a major effect on James Rodriguez's future, but this time the Colombian footballer will not follow "Carletto" back to Real Madrid.

According to sources close to the player and the team, Rodríguez's relationship with incoming coach Rafa Benítez will be the main reason for James' departure from the Toffees, which will lead him to pursue other employment opportunities.

With that in mind, AC Milan have stepped up to offer James a chance to shine in the Italian top-flight as part of Stefano Pioli's project. The rossoneri are interested in hiring a playmaker following Hakan Calhanoglu's departure to Inter, and the chance to hire the Colombian would surely be interesting for the 2020-21 Serie A runners-up.

According to Tuttosport, the Italian side would be willing to hire Rodriguez after paying a $12M sum for the player's transfer. Added to that, Rodríguez would reportedly earn a bit over $6M for every year he plays at San Siro.

James Rodríguez did not have the best season at Goodison Park, being able to play only 26 games across all competitions for the Toffees. During those games, Rodríguez scored six goals and handed out eight assists, but several injuries and off-the pitch issues prevented him from having a major impact on the team's fortunes.

Either way, both the player and the club need their contribution to go back to winning ways. Only time will tell how decisive Rodríguez will become for the rossoneri if he signs a deal with them.