Real Madrid are allegedly considering a potential move to acquire Chelsea’s Reece James as they search for a replacement for Dani Carvajal. Carvajal has been a fixture at the Bernabeu for the past decade, winning the Champions League five times, but at 32 years old, he is approaching the twilight of his career.
The Spanish giants are in the market for a long-term successor to Carvajal, and they see Chelsea’s captain, Reece James, as the ideal candidate, as reported by TeamTalk. Madrid’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, holds a strong admiration for James, who developed through Chelsea’s youth system and later established himself as a regular first-team player.
James was handed the captain’s armband at Stamford Bridge over the summer by Mauricio Pochettino and signed a contract extension until 2028 just a year ago. However, Madrid may attempt to test Chelsea’s determination, as they did when they secured goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan from the English club not so long ago
Although James has faced injury setbacks in recent years, missing the previous season’s World Cup, he recently made his first start in three months during a 2-0 Carabao Cup victory over Blackburn Rovers earlier this week. When he’s in form, James is widely regarded as one of the top right-backs in European football. If Madrid decides to pursue him and can finalise a deal, it would be a significant loss for Chelsea. At only 23 years old, James would be an exciting addition for Madrid if they proceed with their pursuit.
French youngster Malo Gusto has deputised for James in the Chelsea line-up this season, and has shown plenty of promise, but the Blues would certainly not want to lose a talent like James.
Los Blancos could also be dissuaded from the move considering James’ checkered history with injuries, with the right-back frequently sidelined with a variety of physical issues.
