MEXICO CITY, Dec. 9 (Xinhua) -- Pumas UNAM are close to signing Colombian midfielder James Rodriguez on a free transfer, according to media reports.

The Mexico City club is in advanced talks with the 34-year-old and could announce an agreement within days, El Universal reported.

Rodriguez will become a free agent on Dec. 31, when his contract with Club Leon expires. Leon president Jesus Martinez said in November the club would not extend the playmaker's deal.

Local press has also linked fellow Liga MX side Puebla with Rodriguez, saying talks had not advanced beyond an early stage.

The former Real Madrid player made 34 appearances for Leon, scoring five goals and providing nine assists, following his February arrival from Rayo Vallecano. ■