Reece James is back fit, and to say that he’s back with a bang would be an understatement.

The right-back made an instant impact against Nottingham Forest with an assist off the bench, and, as you can imagine, the excitement around Chelsea is palpable as their captain is back in the fray.

Speaking on the Ranks FC Ultras Podcast, Dean Jones has been discussing James’ return from injury, and he pondered whether or not he’ll be able to stay fit.

Interestingly, Jones stated that if James does manage to stay fit, a move to Real Madrid could be on the cards, claiming that the Spanish champions have been looking at the England international for three years at this point.

Real Madrid could sign Reece James

Jones shared what he knows about the right-back.

“He’s made his comeback and he’s back in the team, but can we see the real Reece James for a long period of time? If we do then he will end up at Real Madrid. Genuinely, they’ve wanted him for two or three years if he could become the man he could become, but he’s had setback after setback,” Jones said.

“He’s so good and if he starts the last game of the season then he’s fit for selection in Gareth Southgate’s eyes. I don’t know, I think there’s a huge temptation to take him.”

One to watch next summer

This could be a situation to keep an eye on heading into next summer.

As Jones says, James needs to prove his fitness before Madrid flirt with the idea of signing him, and after another injury-laden season, the right-back won’t be making a move to the Bernabeu this time around.

However, if James does manage to start the majority of games next season, Madrid could come calling, and at that point, the defender will have a huge decision to make about his future.

Whether or not James will be able to resist the temptation of a move to Madrid remains to be seen.