Real Madrid identify Chelsea star as top transfer priority next summer: Reports
Real Madrid have reportedly set their sights on Chelsea defender Reece James as they plan to make an audacious move for the 24-year-old right-back. According to reports in HITC, Madrid see the English international as a long-term option in defense.
Los Blancos are currently drawing up a list of potential options at right-back, with the likes of Sevilla’s Juanlu Sanchez, Freiburg’s Kiliann Sildillia, and Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold being considered.
Another name belivied to be high on Real Madrid's wishlist is Chelsea captain James. The English international is widely regarded as one of the world's best players in his position.
Madrid are said to be following up on James, however, the defender will have to prove his fitness if a move to Santiago Bernabeu would eventually materialize in the near future.
The Blues' skipper has battled with incessant injuries in recent seasons that have largely affected his game time at the club. James is yet to feature for Enzo Mareca's side this season, as he is reportedly nursing a thigh injury.
As it stands, any likely move for the 24-year-old star by Real Madrid would have to wait till he proves that he has overcome his injury woes. However, the fact still remains that Los Blancos do hold strong interest in James, and a move in the near future can't be entirely ruled out.
Chelsea manager reacts to the captaincy debate at the club this season
With club captain Reece James out injured since the start of the season and vice-captain Ben Chilwell exiled from the first-team, Maresca has had to rely on other players to captain the team this season.
Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez has been the one leading Chelsea on the pitch for the majority of the campaign, while his South American counterpart Moises Caicedo has also worn the captain's armband this season, notably in the last game against Bournemouth.
When asked in the summer if he will retain James as captain of the sides, Maresca reveled that the plan hasn't changed as asuch, he would love the 24-year-old England international to be a leader in the team.
Maresca said:
“For sure, James will be one of the captains. He has already been in the past. I want him again to be one of the leaders of this team.
“I like players who take responsibility [...] all who try to be leaders [to] represent the club. [...] It’s important for all of them to feel this kind of responsibility, to behave like a captain, like a leader.”
Meanwhile, James is still yet to play a single game for Chelsea this season after being sidelined with a thigh injury. There still isn't a specific return date for the Englishman as sources according to The Sun indicate that his recovery has been a bit slower than expected.