Report: Real Madrid interested in signing 21-year-old Chelsea academy graduate

Transfer News: Real Madrid interested in Chelsea starlet Reece James

According to transfer news from Defensa Central (h/t Liverpool Echo), Real Madrid have kept Chelsea starlet Reece James on their radar for next season. The Englishman is among the few options Los Blancos are considering to add competition to the right-back position. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Youcef Atal are the other names they are after.

Reece James was among the crop of youngsters handed a run in the side by Frank Lampard during his time as manager. The 21-year-old right-back went on to establish himself as a regular in the side and continued his good form under Thomas Tuchel, adjusting well to pay as a wing-back and even as a part of the back three.

He has been a dominating physical presence in the side and given his impact at Chelsea, it was only a matter of time before clubs came knocking for his services. Real Madrid are the club that have come forward as they want to bolster their right-back area. The Merengues are actually searching for a player to provide competition for Dani Carvajal.

For a while, Real have used Lucas Vazquez as a backup right-back. Hence, they are planning to go after a new name next season. James is among the three names they are looking at. Youcef Atal and Trent Alexander-Arnold are the other options.

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Given the talent and age of James, it’s somewhat impossible to see Chelsea sanction a sale for the 21-year-old academy graduate. He is among the best in his position and quite a versatile player. In no way are Chelsea likely to let him leave for another club.