English Premier League champions Manchester City are reportedly interested in Chelsea right-back Reece James.
According to The Athletic, Man City would like to sign the 21-year-old Blues defender.
It is understood that Man City manager Pep Guardiola is a “huge” fan of the England international, who impressed him with performances against his team last season.
The report states that Chelsea are not willing to sell their academy graduate. James still has four years remaining on his contract.
However, Man City believe Chelsea speculation linking them with full-backs could perhaps open the door for them.
Current Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel called him “fantastic” last season after the FA Cup final defeat to Leicester City. (Don’t worry though, we would go on to win the Champions League).
Reece James is the long-term Chelsea right-back
There are some wild transfer rumours that you hear during the summer months, but this is an early contender for the strangest.
It seems unimaginable that boyhood Chelsea fans James will leave Stamford Bridge.
However, it does go to show his quality when someone like Guardiola apparently rates you.
James has everything needed to be the Blues right-back for the next decade.
As it stands, he’s got the versatility to slot into several defensive position, or even midfield, as he continues to improve at a rapid rate.
Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Twitter account here.