Real Madrid are planning a summer move for Chelsea defender Reece James, having watched him closely during the ongoing campaign, The Mirror reports.
The England international has been a key player for the Blues since making his breakthrough a couple of seasons ago. He has already made 115 appearances in all competitions, registering nine goals and 15 assists.
It is now reported that Los Blancos are lining up a summer approach for the right-back. The La Liga giants are keen admirers of the 22-year-old, and are understood to have watched him on at least nine occasions this term.
Madrid are aware that James won’t come on the cheap with his peak years ahead of him, and they are prepared to test the resolve of Chelsea’s new owners when the transfer window reopens in just over two months.
James is a right-back by trade, but he has regularly played from the right wing-back position under manager Thomas Tuchel. The Blues graduate has also been hugely effective on the right side of a three-man defence.
Carlo Ancelotti has generally preferred to go with a traditional four-man backline. The Italian may see James as a long-term candidate for the right-back spot. He could replace the injury-plagued Dani Carvajal next term.
Carvajal has been an excellent contributor with over 300 appearances for Madrid, but James could be considered an upgrade on him. At just 22, the England star has the knack for delivering accurate crosses into the box.
He is currently enjoying his best campaign with 13 goal contributions to his name. The Blues don’t face any need to sell with over three years remaining on his contract, but Madrid could test their resolve with a significant bid.
A summer exit may depend on the player pushing for a move to the Bernabeu. Even then, it won’t be a surprise if the west London giants demand a potential nine-figure sum for James, who already has 10 caps with England.
