Following the reported signing of Antonio Rudiger, Real Madrid could be looking to bring in another one of the Blues' defenders.
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Since Thomas Tuchel's arrival at Stamford Bridge, Reece James has proved a crucial player for the German tactician, and has become one of the best right-backs in England over the past year.
The 22-year-old is, however, one of the club's lowest earners on reported wages of £58 000 (R1.1 million) a week, and according to Goal, Real are keen to take advantage of James' situation.
Los Blancos have reportedly already signed one Chelsea defender in the form of Rudiger ahead of next season, and are now believed to be eager to secure the services of another in James.
It is claimed they are hoping to complete a deal for the 2020/21 UEFA Champions League winner at the end of next season as they prioritise bringing in Kylian Mbappe in the upcoming transfer window.
Chelsea are bracing themselves for a mass exodus of defenders, with Andreas Christensen understood to be set to leave and join Barcelona, while captain Cesar Azpilicueta is also believed to be a target for the Catalan giants.
However, with James' current deal in London set to end in 2025, sources suggest that the Chelsea academy graduate is not keen on leaving the club just yet.
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