For Tottenham Hotspur, the issue is not talent. Richarlison has long offered intensity, direct running and the edge managers want in a front line. The problem has been clarity.
That is why the rumour makes football sense, even if nothing is confirmed. When a forward is stuck between being useful and being essential, the market starts asking questions. A fresh league, a fresh system or even a return to a more central role could appeal if the right club steps forward.
James Rodríguez remains the kind of player who can trigger a late-window twist. Even without the legs of his peak years, he still carries technical quality, left-footed delivery and the profile clubs notice.
That is what makes this situation feel surprising but believable. Clubs chasing experience, control and final-ball quality often revisit familiar names when the obvious targets disappear.
The key now is whether these stories develop beyond broad interest. For Richarlison, the next sign will be movement in Tottenham’s attacking depth. For James Rodríguez, it will be whether reports of interest harden into concrete talks. Until then, both remain live market themes rather than done deals - and both are worth watching as the next transfer window pressure point approaches.