Real Madrid News
Real Madrid president dreams of signing €65 million-rated Chelsea defender – report
Real Madrid have begun the season oozing optimism. The results have been positive, with two wins in two games, while individuals all over the pitch have performed admirably.
But even with the team showcasing improvements in various aspects, Los Blancos have not abandoned their recruitment policies, having shortlisted positions that require immediate attention.
The right-back position has long been under scrutiny, and reinforcements on the right cannot be ruled out in the distant future.
According to Fichajes, the target entering Real Madrid’s crosshairs is none other than Chelsea superstar Reece James.
Reece James on the horizon for Real Madrid
The Merengues have taken notice of James’ talents. The Englishman has distinguished himself on the pitch by demonstrating extraordinary maturity, making him one of the most promising right-backs in the Premier League.
While Dani Carvajal has started the season off strong, his waning physicality and age have contributed to fluctuations in form over the years as he enters the final stages of his career.
As per the report, James, despite recurrent injuries, has been high on Fiorentino Perez and Ancelotti’s wishlist, who desire to see him sign for the Merengues next year in 2024.
The 23-year-old is considered the ideal replacement for Carvajal, who is essentially on his last legs.
Signing James will not be easy
However, acquiring one of Chelsea’s most symbolic players will by no means be a cakewalk.
The right-back has a contract until 2026, and has a market value of €65 million. He is seen as one of the key figures at Stamford Bridge and was even handed the club captaincy by manager Mauricio Pochettino this season.
So, Chelsea will not make it easy for Real Madrid to sign the England international and any move would likely command a big transfer fee.
That said, with reports that Kylian Mbappe is likely to arrive on a free transfer next year, Madrid, the likelihood of the Royal Whites dishing out a large sum for James next summer is certainly in the offing.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
Jtr
August 26, 2023 at 5:39 pm
Chelsea aren’t selling James even for a big transfer fee. It’s not a dream it’s impossible.