Real Madrid Reportedly Eyeing Chelsea’s Reece James as Top Transfer Target
According to a report from Spain, Real Madrid has placed Reece James at the top of their transfer wishlist. The 23-year-old England international wing-back has become a key member of the Chelsea side over recent seasons and is now an integral part of Graham Potter’s plans after returning from a knee injury that ruled him out of the World Cup.
James penned a new six-year contract last September that ties him to Chelsea until the summer of 2028. However, AS is reporting that Madrid is top of their list of potential new right-backs. The Blues have lost a number of key players to the LaLiga giants over the years, including Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois, who were sold to them in big-money deals, while Antonio Rudiger moved to the Bernabeu on a free transfer when his contract expired last summer.
The Blues may have to offload a number of talents once the window re-opens to help balance the books after their huge outlay under Todd Boehly. However, while Madrid now has a strong interest in James, Sun Sport understands that Chelsea has no desire to sell. That will ultimately force Los Blancos to look elsewhere to bolster their backline.
One potential target is Manchester City outcast Joao Cancelo, who is currently on loan at Bayern Munich. Another option is former Tottenham flop Juan Foyth, who has regained top form since joining Villarreal and is currently impressing in the Spanish top-flight.
In conclusion, Real Madrid’s interest in Reece James is no surprise given his impressive performances for Chelsea. However, it seems unlikely that Chelsea will be willing to part with one of their key players, especially after tying him down to a long-term contract. Madrid will have to look elsewhere to strengthen their backline, and Cancelo or Foyth could be viable options.