Real Madrid see €65 million-rated Chelsea ace as a priority signing for next summer

Real Madrid have locked in on Kylian Mbappe as their primary target next summer. If reports are to be believed, Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies is also equally placed on the club’s wishlist.

With the left-back and forward departments expected to be covered, the only position in Carlo Ancelotti’s setup with the need for reinforcement will be the right-back department.

According to reports from AS, Real Madrid intend on current Chelsea captain Reece James taking over as the team’s next right-back. He is seen as a priority in the Spanish Capital.

James joined Chelsea’s youth academy at the tender age of six and was immediately seen as one with great potential.

Fast forward 17 years, he is now a captain of his boyhood club and one of their most valued assets on the field.

The defender scored five goals and provided nine assists for the London-based side in the 21-22 season, averaging two key passes per game.

His next year was relatively injury-riddled, but he still racked up a goal and an assist in the Premier League in addition to creating three big chances.

Real Madrid thus see James as a big asset, for he would not only provide defensive solidity but also attacking flair on the right flank.

The biggest hurdle in the Merengues’ pursuit of the English star is his long-term commitment to Chelsea.

James’ contract with the London-based side runs until the summer of 2028, leaving Florentino Perez with little room to negotiate.

James’ market value stands at around €65 million, but reports state that Real Madrid will not exceed the €40 million mark on their bids.

Considering that the Blues are under pressure to sell to balance their books, it remains to be seen if there is any movement on this front come summer of 2024.