Reece James approached by Real Madrid and Ben Chilwell return date

The long wait for a win at Old Trafford may now increase from nine to 10 years, as Chelsea could not defeat Manchester United on Thursday evening. A final score of 1-1 does not give a true reflection of a game the Blues certainly should have won. And the statistics truly back the assertion: Man United suffered with only 35 percent possession; while CFC battered the opposition goal with a staggering 21 shots. Though the inaccurate attempts belie another truth, as only six of them were on target. Basically the London side must create more quality opportunities and be further ruthless in front of goal. Signing a clinical striker this summer will help.

Manager Thomas Tuchel addressed the media following the stalemate; evidently the German took positives from the encounter. First of all, it sounded like Tuchel was pleased with aggressive strength when the side were not on the ball; as well as admiring dominance on it. Secondly, the boss praised spaces found, good deliveries, while noting half chances created. However, the former Borussia Dortmund gaffer asserted that attack positioning and determination can improve. Finally, the 48-year-old claimed to be happy with the performance overall. Yet he thinks the correct outcome would be victory for his men.

Chelsea’s Reece James approached by Real Madrid about transfer and Ben Chilwell’s estimated return date

Reece James was an outstanding performer once again last night, this time versus the Red Devils. Consequently, the Pensioners Man of the Match award was given to the adaptable defender. In addition to Tuchel, the Blues star offered his opinions on the game. To begin with, he insisted that ‘Chels’ went to OT to secure three points. Due to wasting chances, that wasn’t to be the case, the 22-year-old suggested. James admits that United are a “great” side who managed to take two points from the Londoners.

Talking of the England international, there was a surprising declaration from journalist Nizaar Kinsella on Friday morning. Goal’s reporter writes that Real Madrid have made what is described as an “early” approach for James. There is talk that Madrid will try to exploit the contract deadlock between club and player. He and teammate Mason Mount both earn particularly low wages, relatively, when compared with other prominent athletes in West London. Additionally, the high profile pair have one-year remaining on their respective deals.

So, what superclubs such as the Spaniards apparently want, is to negotiate transfer agreements ahead of expirations. Therefore marquee switches can not just be arranged, but potentially for zero fees. Other major outfits have also apparently inquired with ‘RJ’ about plans for his future. Although, CFC supporters should not worry too much, as there is hope James is devoted to the team. When new ownership is in place, we can probably expect fresh long-term commitment.

Next up, PoL wanted to alert you to some extremely promising news. Ben Chilwell’s season was cut dreadfully short while featuring in a match versus Juventus in November. He sustained an anterior crucial ligament injury which ended a budding, maiden Blues campaign. Yet the same outlet states the left-footer will return to training with CFC’s Under-23s next week. Pleasingly, Chilwell should be fit for the preseason trip to United States.