It is safe to say that the role of full-backs has evolved exponentially over the years in the world of full-ball.
From being defensive modalities down the flanks to becoming one of the most dynamic weapons in the final third, the position has seen a large shift in recent decades.
At Real Madrid, the importance of dynamic full-backs is further emphasised.
Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vasquez have covered the right-back role well on that front. Now past 30, both players are rightly considered to be entering their final years at the club and Real Madrid are looking for their next right-back.
Target England?
According to a report from Graeme Bailey of 90 Min, Los Blancos have their eyes set on two players in the Premier League to take forward the right-back position – Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold and Chelsea’s Reece James.
Interestingly, the report adds that the Merengues’ arch-rivals, Barcelona, are also eyeing the same duo.
Los Blancos’ interest in the Chelsea defender is no novelty, for it has been widely reported in recent times as an active operation. The links to Alexander-Arnold, however, arrive as a new update.
Both are premier right-backs in England and have tasted success with their respective clubs, and given their age, would be long-term solutions to the right-back slot at Real Madrid or Barcelona.
Is the chosen one in Chelsea?
Reece James’ contract at Chelsea runs until the summer of 2028, making it a difficult deal for Real Madrid to approach from a financial perspective. After all, they will have little to no leverage over the transfer fees.
What could play into their hands, however, is Chelsea’s compulsion to sell. After their frenzied run of arrivals last summer, the English side must let go of some of their players to balance the books. Real Madrid hope to take advantage of the situation.
The right-back’s market value stands at €65 million, and Chelsea hope to get every penny of the aforementioned amount. Florentino Perez is willing to go up to €40 million, and it remains to be seen if a deal can be struck.
However, Graeme Bailey claims that James remains committed to continuing at Chelsea despite the interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Meanwhile, not much is known as to Alexander-Arnold’s links with the Merengues.
But the report adds that Liverpool are in talks with the player over a renewal, and the coming days will be vital if a move to Spain is to go through.
