It's Real, Rodriguez is a Galactico

Real Madrid yesterday signed Colombian striker James Rodriguez, the top scorer at the World Cup, from Monaco on a six season contract. Neither team gave the transfer fee, but Spanish media have spoken of a figure of between 75 million and 80 million euros. Rodriguez, 23, scored six goals for Colombia at the World Cup to win the Golden Boot award. The 23-year-old will be unveiled at Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium at 08:00 pm, the club said in a statement. Shortly before the announcement, Rodriguez posed for pictures and gave the thumbs up sign as he left a Madrid clinic where he underwent medical tests. "I am very happy. We will talk later," he told reporters. He had only been at Monaco for one year but his sizzling performance at the World Cup made him the number one target for many European clubs. In a FIFA.com poll released Monday, his volley against Uruguay in the last 16 was declared goal of the tournament by more than four million voters - three quarters of those who took part. James, who will wear the No. 10 shirt vacated by Mesut Ozil's move to Arsenal last summer, will join World Cup winner Toni Kroos as a high-profile arrival in this transfer window. The goal established the global reputation of the young playmaker, who cost Monaco 45 million euros (60 million dollars) when he signed from FC Porto of Portugal. He is scheduled to join up with his new teammates for their preseason tour of the US after being presented to the fans in the Spanish capital. Real will play International Champions Cup matches against Inter Milan in Berkley, in July 27, Roma in Dallas, Texas, on July 30 and Manchester United on August 2 in Ann Arbor. Should Real reach the final, they will play for the trophy in Miami on August 4. MADRID NAMPA/AFP