Chelsea Linked With A Swap Deal With Real Madrid For Valverde: Does It Make Any Sense? | OneFootball

Despite the absence of any concrete links of Chelsea right-back Reece James to Real Madrid, Spanish newspapers suggest that the Blues might consider allowing James to depart if they were to receive Federico Valverde in return, this is according to a report from Football.London.

James’ Outstanding Performance For Chelsea In The Previous Season

Reece James consistently delivered exceptional performances while patrolling Chelsea’s right defensive flank during the previous season. However, despite his contributions, Chelsea struggled to maintain a stable position in the Premier League standings. Throughout the campaign, the 23-year-old managed to notch two goals and provide two assists in 24 appearances for the Blues across various competitions.

This homegrown talent displayed his versatility, proving to be an asset in both the defensive and offensive facets of the game. His statistics reflected this adaptability, with averages of 1.9 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 1.0 shots, 1.3 key passes, and 1.4 dribbles per game in the Premier League.

Additionally, his impressive passing accuracy of 90.7% underscored his ability to distribute the ball effectively during league matches (statistics sourced from whoscored).

Chelsea’s English defender Reece James (L) vies with Real Madrid’s Uruguayan midfielder Federico Valverde during the UEFA Champions League quarter final first leg football match between Real Madrid CF and Chelsea FC at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid on April 12, 2023. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO / AFP) (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)

His existing contract with the West London club is set to expire in the summer of 2028. Consequently, securing his services at a reduced price next year could pose a challenge for Real Madrid, and Chelsea may be cautious about entertaining a potential sale.

Will The Swap Deal Materialise Next Summer?

Reece James, Chelsea’s homegrown sensation, has established himself as one of the most promising right-backs in European football. The 23-year-old has consistently delivered outstanding performances, displaying his versatility as an asset in both defensive and offensive roles. With a contract running until the summer of 2028, Chelsea holds a valuable young talent with immense potential.

Federico Valverde, on the other hand, is a dynamic midfielder known for his energy, ball-winning abilities, and box-to-box prowess. Valverde’s presence in the midfield provides Real Madrid with stability and a valuable link between defence and attack. The 24-year-old Uruguayan has proven himself in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

The potential Reece James – Federico Valverde swap is an intriguing proposition from the West London club. While Valverde’s midfield abilities are undoubted, the departure of a versatile and homegrown talent like James could leave a void in Chelsea’s squad. So the answer for us at least is no from Chelsea’s POV.