Real Madrid identify Reece James as long-term Dani Carvajal replacement

James has been named new captain of Chelsea this season

Real Madrid have decided on Reece James as an eventual successor for Dani Carvajal of Spain.

According to astonishing claims in Spain, Chelsea might be persuaded to sell Reece James if the "right amount" is offered, with Real Madrid prepared to test their grit.

The Blues have seen a significant change in the last 12 months, and James, although just 23 years old, is now the player with the longest tenure at Stamford Bridge.

Further new hires were announced this summer as Chelsea's spending surpassed £1 billion under Todd Boehly. By offloading players like Mason Mount, Kai Havertz, and Mateo Kovacic, they were able to recuperate part of that expenditure.

However, Chelsea might need to sell a few more experienced players in 2024 in order to square the books further. Despite the fact that James' injury issues have persisted this season, he is perhaps the most important player in Mauricio Pochettino's squad.

On the first day of the season, the full-back suffered a hamstring injury in the 1-1 draw with Liverpool, forcing Mauricio Pochettino to replace him with Malo Gusto. Real was considering signing James during the summer transfer window.

However, it appears that Real are preparing to make a move next year. Sport in Spain reports that Real are prepared to make James a £34.5 million offer.

Although it is implied that they might have to be persuaded to reconsider their mind, the article does mention that Chelsea currently have "no intention" of losing their captain. Real are apparently unwilling to pay his market worth, which is closer to £51.5 million.

Additionally, he is not among the two Chelsea players they intend to allegedly sell in the coming year. Trevoh Chalobah and Marc Cucurella allegedly received notification that their transfer windows will open in January.