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James Rodriguez-Luis Diaz swap falls through for Everton in 2021

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 4:50 PM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

James Rodriguez-Luis Diaz swap falls through for Everton in 2021

Summary

Back in summer 2021, Everton aimed to sign Luis Diaz from Porto, proposing a swap deal involving James Rodriguez. The plan nearly materialized, with Diaz’s medical scheduled. However, Rodriguez opted against a return to Porto due to financial concerns, and ultimately, Diaz joined Liverpool months later. This exchange has become a notable reference point as both players prepare for Colombia's World Cup opener against Uzbekistan.

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By the Numbers

•Everton had financial constraints limiting their summer transfer activity in 2021.
•James Rodriguez faced a wage drop that led to him rejecting a return to Porto.
•Luis Diaz was a key target for Everton but eventually signed with Liverpool.
•Rodriguez and Diaz both play central roles for Colombia as the World Cup begins.
•Everton's inability to secure Diaz highlighted poor club management during that period.

Latest Updates

4:50 PMYahoo Sports — The James Rodriguez-Luis Diaz swap: So close, but so far for Everton

What they're saying

"
(Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)Back in the summer of 2021, Everton were very close to a major signing.The Toffees only spent £1.7M that transfer window, as financial issues began to bite. Car...
— Yahoo Sports

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