James Rodriguez, the Colombia striker who was the top scorer at the World Cup, is closing in on a deal with Real Madrid. The 23-year-old Monaco forward scored six goals in Brazil, including a spectacular volley against Uruguay in the second round.

Spanish sports newspaper As said on Monday that Monaco have agreed terms with Madrid, whose president Florentino Perez has delayed his flight to Los Angeles where the club’s squad is scheduled to do some preseason training.

Sports newspaper Marca, traditionally very close to Madrid’s boardroom, says Rodriguez is to be presented to fans on Tuesday. Madrid have already signed Germany midfielder Toni Kroos for next season.

Gerrard quits england

England captain Steven Gerrard has announced his retirement from international football, England’s Football Association said on Monday. The Liverpool midfielder won 114 caps for his country after making his debut in a 2-0 win over Ukraine at Wembley in 2000. “I have enjoyed every minute of representing my country, and it is a sad day for me knowing that I won’t pull on the England shirt again,” the 34-year-old said.

Gerrard’s appearance at the World Cup in Brazil last month was the sixth time he had represented England at a major tournament, but it ended in failure as Roy Hodgson’s side went out at the group stage. Gerrard said he was retiring from internationals in part to ensure he can keep playing to a high level with Liverpool.

“I’d like to firstly thank my family and friends for all their support throughout my England journey,” Gerrard added.

“I’d also like to thank everyone who has been part of my international career, from the England managers I’ve played under to the staff at the FA and… all the players I’ve been fortunate to play alongside. In particular, the supporters have been amazing, not least in Brazil when they got behind the team despite the disappointing results. I’d especially like to thank Roy (Hodgson), firstly for giving me the captaincy permanently , making me the proudest man in the country and allowing me to fulfill my childhood dream.

“To ensure I can keep playing to a high level and giving everything to Liverpool Football Club, I believe this is the right decision, and having Champions League football back at Anfield is.