Real Madrid’s EMBARRASSING valuation of Chelsea star James
Robin Bairner
- 21 Oct 2023 08:36 BST
- 3 min read
Real Madrid have targeted Chelsea right-back Reece James as a transfer target for summer 2024 – but if their valuation of the England international is anything to go by, they have simply no chance of getting the Stamford Bridge side to accept an offer.
Los Blancos are seeking to upgrade their options in the right-back role, where Dani Carvajal has been a loyal servant for 10 years but will be well over 32 years old by the time next season begins.
Clearly, there is a need for a succession plan to be put in place at the Bernabeu, and Chelsea’s James is a player that the 14-time Champions League winners are widely expected to look at in order to fill this role.
The 23-year-old has been with Chelsea since 2008 and, aside for a one-season loan deal at Wigan, has spent his entire career with the club.
Despite turning in strong performances for the Blues, which have been recognised on 16 occasions by England, James is still one appearance away from his 100th in the Premier League.
Constant injury issues have denied him regular football over the last three seasons and he is a doubt before Chelsea meet Arsenal on Sunday, raising some questions over his longevity at Stamford Bridge.
It would take a huge bid from Real Madrid in order to get the Blues to sell, and that is unlikely to come, with Estadio Deportivo suggesting that they value James only between €35-40 million.
What is Reece James’ transfer value?
James’ Estimated Transfer Value (ETV), meanwhile, is set at €54m and would be higher had he not been plagued by injury last season.
Indeed, his valuation hovered around the €70m mark for much of last term and Chelsea are likely to see that as the player’s true price. Even then, they may well want more for an academy star under contract until 2028.
Perhaps the only concern for the Blues is Financial Fair Play (FFP), which restricted them this summer.
Selling an academy player would be better for their balance sheet than offloading an expensive import, and this alone puts James’ future in some doubt.
Even then, Chelsea will surely not accept a bid in line with Real Madrid’s valuation.
