Chelsea have reportedly received an eight-figure bid from Brighton for their defender Reece James.
The 19-year-old has spent the season out on loan with Wigan Athletic in the Championship, where he’s been their outstanding individual and enjoyed a great development.
According to the Sun, Premier League outfit Brighton have offered £10million to sign the right-back in the summer.
It is understood that the Blues have turned down the approach and they plan to keep him.
The report details that the West London club are “unlikely” to play the full-back next season, but that he could come in to be the back-up to Cesar Azpilicueta rather than current option Davide Zappacosta.
With Chelsea’s busy domestic and European fixture list in store next season, the teenage loanee would surely get his first senior opportunities at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s rejection of a £10million bid for James is certainly a good sign for fans that want to see him stay.
James was included in the Championship team of the year following his consistent performances for strugglers Wigan and he looks ready for the top flight.
The England Under-20 international is a modern day full-back with great pace and stamina to be strong both offensively and defensively in wide areas.
He’s also a set-piece specialist that has brilliant individual quality and it seems natural for him to break into Maurizio Sarri’s first-team squad eventually.
Chelsea have made mistakes wiith youngsters in the past, but it looks like they won’t do the same with James and he’s got immense potential to become a future star.
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