The Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern are struggling to keep up with this proposed deal!

A few days ago, it looked like a done deal. James Rodriguez was being heavily linked with a Chelsea move, and it appeared all but confirmed.

However, as reported recently by the Sun, things are, seemingly, not as they appear. The Sun are reporting that Chelsea are in fact not interested in Rodriguez, with his £60 million price tag putting off the Premier League table toppers.

This news has shocked the Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern, many of whom were touting the Columbian as the man to win Chelsea the Premier League title – but it would appear as though that is not to be.

Our landlord thought that the deal made a lot of sense, and in fact, he thinks that the Blues are making a serious mistake by not following up on their interest in him.

With that said, here are 3 reasons why Chelsea are making a mistake in not signing James Rodriguez…

 Strength In Depth

There can be no doubts about it – Chelsea are seriously lacking squad depth.

Antonio Conte has opted to utilise largely the same team for much of the season, and whilst it has worked so far – it will undoubtedly come unglued as time goes on.

During busy periods, squad rotation is essential – and Conte must bring in a few more players to improve the Blues in that regard.

James Rodriguez would serve as a perfect example of this, and would allow Conte an alternative to the likes of Hazard and Pedro.

 Quality

James Rodriguez is one of the best players in the world – and he would undoubtedly improve Chelsea.

He rose to prominence after a stellar 2014 World Cup, but since moving to Madrid – he has been equally impressive.

His lack of game time in recent weeks speaks more of the quality in the Real Madrid first team, rather than his own quality – and at Chelsea, he would undoubtedly be given a more significant role.

 Experience

James Rodriguez has won so much in his career, and despite being just 25-years-old, he has years of experience at the highest level.

This is something that most of the Chelsea first team players lack, and Antonio Conte would be wise to invest in him for that reason.

He has excellent league campaigns and Champions League runs behind him – and as Conte looks to build a dynasty, there are few better players to spearhead the midfield than James Rodriguez.