Chelsea captain Reece James is reportedly fully committed to the Blues despite transfer interest from Real Madrid and Manchester City. James has been linked with a blockbuster mega-money move but will supposedly commit his future to the Stamford Bridge outfit.
The defender has had his season disrupted by injuries but his return to fitness has coincided with an improvement in Chelsea’s results. They thrashed Tottenham 4-1 last week and a spirited display saw them draw 4-4 in a thriller against Man City on Sunday.
James has been integral in both performances and Chelsea will be desperate to keep the academy graduate. His form has caught the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Reports claim that Real Madrid and Man City are both keen on an expensive deal. Both teams likely have the funds to make a move possible.
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However, 90min report that James is ‘fully committed’ to Chelsea and will not pursue an exit. Achieving his goals with his boyhood club is reported to be the 23-year-old’s focus.
Reigning Premier League champions City are aware of the need to replace the 33-year-old Kyle Walker over the next couple of years. James is the natural successor to Walker in the England set-up and reportedly has admirers within the City hierarchy.
Meanwhile, Spanish giants Real are keen to replace the ageing Dani Carvajal, 31. The report insists that a move abroad would certainly not interest James at this stage of his career.
Pochettino named James as his captain at the start of the season, replacing the departed Cesar Azpilicueta. However, the starlet has struggled with injuries over the last 12 months, with those issues continuing into the current campaign.
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James, who missed the World Cup through injury 12 months ago, suffered a hamstring injury during the opening day draw with Liverpool. A setback during his recovery meant he only returned to fitness at the end of October.
Pochettino recently hailed James as one of the best full-backs in world football, saying: “It’s really important [for James to return]. It’s important that your captain stay fit and can help the team. One of the best full backs in the world.”
James, who signed a new six-year contract last year, will likely stay at Chelsea for the foreseeable future.
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