Why Reece James awaits contract talks as Real Madrid and Man City lurk

Welcome to Pride of London’s Sunday roundup, which will briefly examine a noteworthy latest piece of news. Then we shall finish with a more in-depth look at why Reece James – and Mason Mount, by extension – have not had their rather underpaying contracts extended. Let’s begin with an update on the important Spanish defending duo at Stamford Bridge: Chelsea Football Club Captain Cesar Azpilicueta and goalscoring left wingback Marcos Alonso. Currently the pair are with Spain on international duty; in the last week the national team drew with Portugal as well as Czech Republic. Subsequently the Spaniards defeated Switzerland, and play the Czechs once again today.

Upon the completion of the four matches, the two are expected to have talks with CFC over their respective futures. However, according to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona want both players and are ‘working’ towards capturing Alonso, with the player keen on moving to Camp Nou. Apparently personal terms are even agreed; Romano adds that only the English club’s fee remains an obstacle. Furthermore, the extremely credible reporter clarifies Barca also hope to receive an imminent answer with regard to Azpilicueta from Blues officials.

Why Reece James awaits Chelsea contract talks with Real Madrid, Manchester City lurking?

Should the 31-year-old and 32-year-old be allowed to depart Fulham Road, the number of starting defenders – technically – to leave Chels’ would be taken to four. And that might be before summer 2022 has even begun. This fact is fairly astounding, to be honest. I cannot remember any preeminent club ever being in this position. Although, chairman Todd Boehly is thought to be ready to replace the leavers with premium talent.

And it is almost certainly that at least a couple of those athletes may have remained at Chelsea for another campaign or longer, if not for government sanctions. Well, if Azpilicueta and Alonso do depart, which feels very likely. Losing Antonio Rudiger is the one that hurts the side the most; meanwhile, ‘Azpi’s’ passion is a factor which will be sorely missed, too.

So, why is one of the remaining stars of defence, James, still awaiting his contract extension talks in that case? Especially with giants such as Real Madrid and Manchester City supposedly lurking for any issues to occur. A good question. Basically, the England man shouldn’t be waiting anymore. Many mistakes emerge from any ownership, even the ultra successful collectives – and this is the first from the Boehly-Clearlake group, as I see it!

Unless, of course, there are unknown legal reasons as to why the raise-deserving James has not been catered to to. Yet PoL haven’t heard anything regarding hypothetical problems from any quality source since restrictions were lifted, in that respect. Though the best authority offers an indication on account of Londoners’ preoccupation. Below, Romano suggest they are negotiating elsewhere.

Obviously talking to a specific incoming player, which is what Chelsea are currently doing, will mean certain staff and resources are occupied. If there are not enough people qualified with CFC, or have been let go in the transition, then hiring satisfactory levels of competent personnel is vital in a crucial period for the Blues.

Man City or Real turning James’ head is a potential disaster for the West Londoners. James is with the Three Lions squad for Nations League matches – but when he returns, hopefully CFC and his manager have readied an agreement. Encouragingly, it is clear that the player loves Chels’.

With defensive reinforcements the present priority, Goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina should be confirmed as a Blue soon. After nearly signing Slonina last February, the Premier League side will probably now set an MLS transfer record. Meanwhile a los Blancos’ bid was rejected by Chicago Fire.