Real Madrid set €40m limit in their pursuit of 23-year-old Chelsea star

Real Madrid are unwilling to pay over €40m for Chelsea star Reece James

Real Madrid have identified Chelsea’s Reece James as their top target for next summer but will not pay over 40m euros for the defender, according to Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo.

Despite being happy with Dani Carvajal, Madrid know the 31-year-old needs replacing soon and have turned their attention to England international James. The 23-year-old is among the best players in his position and can only get better with age.

With Carvajal’s contract expiring in 2025, Madrid want to bring in James as his long-term successor at right-back. At 23 years old, James fits the profile of a young, physically gifted full-back that Los Blancos have made their priority.

Madrid’s scouts believe James, who has 16 England caps already, can be secured for around €35-40 million. But Chelsea will likely demand more for one of their biggest talents, especially as James is tied down until 2028 at Stamford Bridge. More so, Mauricio Pochettino certainly sees a bright future for him at the Bridge and even made him the skipper heading into the 2023-24 season.

Madrid are adamant they will not be held to ransom for the right-back, setting €40m as their limit. The Spanish giants are eager to land Reece James but unwilling to pay over the odds to make it happen. With Carvajal still performing well, Madrid holds the upper hand and will walk away rather than overspend.

James has made nearly 150 Chelsea appearances, establishing himself as a key player. But Madrid hope their reasonable valuation combined with Chelsea’s financial issues could see a deal struck. Madrid would offer James a long-term contract as they target at least five seasons out of their new right-back.

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While determined to sign him, Madrid’s hierarchy have drawn a firm line on James’ fee that they will not cross. However, Chelsea will not let go of a player of James’ calibre easily. He is currently one of the most promising stars in the world. However, his tendency to pick up injuries frequently might make the Chelsea hierarchy think twice if a big enough offer comes around.