Reece James’ importance to Chelsea can never be underestimated. Graham Potter’s side are a far poorer team in his absence, and his return to the line-up to take on Borussia Dortmund aided the Blues’ triumphant comeback.
However, it’s not just on the pitch where James has demonstrated his value at Stamford Bridge. The 23-year-old has become known for building relationships with both teammates and opposition players, becoming a popular figurehead for the Chelsea dressing room.
This was evidenced by the January loan capture of Joao Felix, who revealed in his first interview as a Chelsea player: "I met Reece James one time when I was in London at a restaurant. Amazing guy."
READ MORE: Graham Potter confirms five Chelsea stars missing for Leicester including Reece James
Now, Chelsea fans will be hoping James can use this same trick to secure Todd Boehly and co. a dream transfer signing this summer. The Chelsea board have been long-time admirers of forward Rafael Leao, and pursued him over the summer before also continuing talks with AC Milan into the winter.
Earlier this campaign, while the right-back was sidelined through injury, the 23-year-old took on a new role off the pitch as he played his part in building up relationships. He has made no attempt to hide messages with both Leao and Vinicius Jr, of Real Madrid, on social media, often engaging in short conversations with the pair.
James has continued to showcase the friendships he has established with rival players. More recently, he was asked who the toughest opponent he has ever played against was by football performance coach James Ralph via Instagram. Following his initial puffing of the cheeks and exclamation “woooo”, the right-back responded: “I’ll say Vini (Vinicius Jr) and Leao”.
Showcasing their mutual respect for each other, both Leao and Vinicius Jr had in fact labelled James as one of their most difficult opponents they have faced when asked separately last year. Blues supporters would be overjoyed if he can use this tactic to persuade either of these lively attackers to west London.
The Blues recently suffered a setback in their pursuit of Leao with his agent approaching Spanish giants Real Madrid over a potential summer move for his client. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Mendes offered the Portuguese striker to Real Madrid last month, but the La Liga giants are unwilling to make a big-money offer for the 23-year-old, considering they already have Vinicius Jr playing on the left-wing.
Meanwhile, AC Milan sporting director Frederic Massara said earlier this season: "We’re confident to reach an agreement with Rafael Leao and extend his contract. We’ll try to find a solution to proceed with Rafa for long time."
READ NEXT:
What Enzo Fernandez did to Kai Havertz as Chelsea record transfer shows unexpected quality
Chelsea star has ‘private conversations’ with Graham Potter after Leeds and Dortmund snubs
Who Chelsea could play in the Champions League quarter-finals after Tottenham and PSG defeats
Graham Potter has rare Chelsea chance vs Leicester City but Denis Zakaria decision remains
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
