Bayern Munich confirm James Rodriguez exit as Cristiano Ronaldo ‘calls Colombian on FaceTime to convince him to join Juventus’

JAMES RODRIGUEZ is officially leaving Bayern Munich after the club decided not to buy him for £37million.

The German giants' chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge confirmed the Colombia star had asked to go - as other reports claim he could be set for a reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo.

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Rummenigge said: "In principle, the decision was made because he came to me before the end of the season and asked me not to activate the option [to buy him].

"Activating the option now against his will makes no sense."

The 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner, 27, could now be set to line up with Ronaldo once more after spending two seasons in Germany on loan from Real Madrid.

Respected German newspaper carried a story saying the Portuguese had got in touch with his former team-mate on FaceTime.

And during those calls he is believed to have sold him the idea of playing for Juventus.

Ronaldo, 34, moved to Turin from Madrid for £99million last summer and won Serie A in his first season there.

Bild claim that Ronaldo used his huge personal power to convince Rodriguez - who also been linked to Manchester United - to join him.

And they also claim Juventus chiefs are interested in bringing the attacking midfielder - who scored 14 goals in 43 league games for Bayern - to Italy.

The bond between Rodriguez and Ronaldo is strengthened by the fact they both have Jorge Mendes as their agent - and shared three seasons together at the Bernabeu.

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However, Napoli are also reported to be keeping tabs on Rodriguez's situation.

Should the Colombian go to Juventus, his new boss could be Maurizio Sarri if he arrives at the Allianz Stadium this summer after Chelsea reportedly allowed him to leave.

However, the Italian, who led the Blues to the Europa League in his first season in charge, has hinted all may not be rosy with Ronaldo should he take over the Old Lady.