Chelsea could lose full-back Niamh Charles this summer after reports that Real Madrid are considering a move for the 26-year-old.
The former Liverpool defender finally made her return for the Blues over the weekend in their hard-fought win over Aston Villa, bringing to an end a three-month absence from Sonia Bompastor’s squad.
Real Interested In Move, But Face Hurdle
In a report from ESPN Deportes, Real Madrid are considering both Niamh Charles and Real Sociedad defender Aiara Agirrezabala to become their new first-choice left-back this summer, with Las Blancas looking to replace former Everton star Sara Holmgaard and Yasmin Ribeiro.
The pair were signed by the Spanish giants in the wake of Olga Carmona’s exit to Paris Saint-Germain, but neither have been viewed as a long-term successor to the 25-year-old, meaning that Pau Quesada’s side are considering a new option.
However, a deal to secure Charles may prove to be troublesome for Real, with ESPN stating that both the player’s individual demands and Chelsea’s valuation of their star defender make a deal ‘very complicated’.
Real Madrid could face their target in the Women’s Champions League Final should they qualify, but face an uphill task in their quarter-final second leg after losing to El Clásico rivals Barcelona 6-2 at home.
Charles Key To Chelsea Revival
In what has been a tough season overall for Chelsea as their grip on the Women’s Super League seems to be coming to an end, retaining as many of their star players in order to try and mount a comeback next season is key.
Niamh Charles has been a crucial part of the Blues’ dominance over the past few years, with five league titles, four FA Cups and three League Cups to her name, and losing her as they look to fight back against a resurgent Manchester City and fellow title rivals in Manchester United and Arsenal will be a major blow.
However, Sonia Bompastor’s side should still consider a sale if Real Madrid were to offer a lucrative deal, with Charles’ absence over the past few months giving a chance to 17-year-old Chloe Sarwie, who was fairly impressive in her WSL debut against London City Lionesses.
Ultimately, it is highly unlikely that an exit will be sanctioned for the 26-year-old this summer, meaning Las Blancas will go for Aiara Agirrezabala, who is likely their first choice option at left-back in their quest to try and end Barcelona’s dominance of the Liga F.
