Fabrizio Romano reveals Reece James to Barcelona state of play

Carlo Garganese

• Updated: 15 Oct 2024 10:19 BST
• 3 min read

FootballTransfers understands that Chelsea captain Reece James is considering moving to Barcelona, and Fabrizio Romano has responded to the report.

We reported exclusively last week that the Chelsea captain was considering a significant career change as his agent has begun sounding out clubs in Spain and Portugal.

According to our sources, both Barcelona and Benfica have been approached by the 24-year-old's representative, with the idea of a move to a warmer climate being considered as a potential solution to the England international's recurring muscle injuries.

James has endured a frustrating series of setbacks, having suffered seven hamstring injuries since joining Chelsea’s senior squad. These ailments have plagued both legs, and in addition to his hamstrings, he has dealt with various other muscle-related issues, including knee problems.

We have been told that physios have advised that the warmer climes of southern Europe, particularly Spain or Portugal, could significantly aid James’ recovery and long-term fitness.

The belief is that the higher average temperatures, combined with the slower pace of leagues like LaLiga or the Portuguese Primeira Liga, may reduce the risk of further injury and allow James to extend his playing career at the top level.

Romano has now responded to the reports of James potentially moving to Barcelona.

The Italian transfer aggregator says that his sources are playing down talk of an imminent move to Barcelona or Benfica.

Romano says that James is fully focused on Chelsea right now as he works on getting back to full fitness in training.

Nevertheless, with James the best-paid player at Chelsea on £13 million per season, he will be under pressure to prove his worth in the coming months.

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In total, James has missed a staggering 129 Chelsea matches due to injury, a worrying statistic that has raised concerns among his private physiotherapists and representatives.

James to Barcelona?

The right back has now made his comeback to full training but his return to actual first-team action remains uncertain, with no definitive date set.

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Barcelona have long been big fans of James, and the Blaugrana are looking to sign a natural right back next year.

They currently play Jules Kounde, a natural centre back, on the right side of their defence and want a more orthodox option who excels offensively in the position.