Manchester City are interested in signing Chelsea right back Reece James, according to the Athletic.
Pep Guardiola has been impressed by the Chelsea player’s performances this season, particularly the two against his own side.
Since then, Guardiola has requested the player to be added to City’s illustrious list of transfer targets.
After a season-long loan at Wigan, James has progressed from the Chelsea academy to a regular in the senior team.
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James received his senior debut under former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard in September 2019, since he has gone on to make 84 appearances for the London club.
He was one of Chelsea’s standout performers at right wing back in their 1-0 win against Manchester City in the Champions League Final in May.
James’ club form resulted in him being named in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2020 and recently started in the group stage game against Scotland.
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Under Thomas Tuchel, James has played in numerous different positions including right wing back, right back, centre back and midfield.
According to reports, it is James’ versatility and adaptability in different formations which is greatly appreciated by City.
Even though Kyle Walker and Joao Cancelo have performed well at right back for City this season, James would offer great competition for the position.
Whilst Chelsea do not want to sell a player to a direct title rival, the West-London club’s pursuit of Inter Milan wing back Achraf Hakimi has suggested there are doubts if Tuchel sees James as a first-team regular for the club.
However, due to City’s well-documented pursuits of Harry Kane and Jack Grealish, City’s quest to sign James may have to wait.
According to reports this week, City are close to agreeing a deal with Aston Villa for up to £100 million for the English midfielder.
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Even though Villa hope to tempt Grealish to stay with a new contract, it is understood that playing Champions League football under Guardiola is a huge pull for the playmaker.
The transfer for Kane is looking less likely at this moment as Daniel Levy looks to hold firm and try to keep the striker at Tottenham this summer.
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