Transfer Centre

Reece James 'remains long-term target for Real Madrid'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 09 October 2022

Real Madrid are still interested in Chelsea defender Reece James despite the Englishman recently signing a new deal at Stamford Bridge, according to a report.

Real Madrid are reportedly still interested in signing Chelsea defender Reece James despite the Englishman recently penning a new long-term deal at Stamford Bridge.

There had been speculation surrounding the right-back's future earlier this year, with Manchester City and Real Madrid both believed to be keeping a close eye on his situation in London.

The 22-year-old penned a new long-term contract with the Blues last month, though, with his current agreement in the English capital due to run until June 2028.

James has again been a vital player for Chelsea this season, making 10 appearances in all competitions, contributing two goals and two assists in the process.

However, according to Fichajes, despite the recent contract extension, Real Madrid remain interested in bringing the England international to Bernabeu.

Chelsea defender Reece James pictured on November 23, 2021 © Reuters

The report claims that Los Blancos view James as their first-choice target to replace Dani Carvajal in the future, and they will work to bring him to Spain in one of the future transfer windows.

James came through the youth system with the Blues, turning professional in March 2017, and he had a loan spell at Wigan Athletic in 2018-19 before becoming an important player for Chelsea.

The defender has won the Champions League and UEFA Super Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge, while he has been capped on 15 occasions by England and is set to be named in the squad for the World Cup.

"I am over the moon with my new contract and I'm thankful for the fans, the new ownership and everyone involved in the club. I cannot wait to see what the future holds, and I am sure we will have the chance of winning many trophies," James told Chelsea's official website when he signed his new contract.

"I grew up supporting this club and I've been here since I was a six-year-old. I put pen to paper on a new deal because this is the club I want to be at. I'd like to say a special thanks to the fans, I am here to stay and we have a bright future ahead of us."

Chelsea's Kai Havertz celebrates scoring their first goal with Cesar Azpilicueta and Reece James on April 6, 2022 © Reuters

Carvajal remains Real Madrid's first-choice right-back, while Alvaro Odriozola and Lucas Vazquez are also options for head coach Carlo Ancelotti in that area of the field.

However, the Spanish and European champions are believed to be looking to sign a new right-sided defender ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.

Ancelotti's side returned to the top of the La Liga table courtesy of a 1-0 victory over Getafe on Saturday evening, with Eder Militao scoring the only goal of the match early on.

Chelsea, meanwhile, continued their recent strong form with a 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League, with James coming on as a late substitute at Stamford Bridge.