According to HITC, Ipswich Town, Southampton, Leicester City, Brighton, and Brentford are all interested in Birmingham City star Jordan James.
Birmingham City have had a good summer transfer window thus far, with a slew of ambitious additions announced ahead of the new season.
Relegation often results in the departure of some significant players, but as of yet, exits have been kept to a minimum. Alex Pritchard was sold to Sivasspor, while all others that left did so at the end of their contracts.
Jordan James, a 20-year-old Wales international, is among those largely expected to move up, possibly regardless of whether the Blues are demoted. The midfielder has emerged as a star at St. Andrews and has previously attracted high-profile interest.
HITC now alleges that five Premier League clubs are on his trail.
The Birmingham City academy graduate is reportedly coveted by Ipswich Town, Southampton, Leicester City, Brighton, and Brentford. As things stand, the promoted Tractor Boys are attempting to work out a deal and now lead the hunt for James.
Atalanta in Serie A remains interested after expressing interest in January, with the Hereford-born prospect poised to leave the club.
A deserved step up
As previously said, James had likely earned the opportunity to move up to a higher level even before Birmingham City was relegated. He has previously been linked with top-flight clubs, so it would be surprising to see him play in League One.
It means that Premier League interest in his services is unsurprising; many would have predicted it.
Promoted trio Ipswich Town, Southampton, and Leicester City have all been trying to strengthen their squads, and signing one of the EFL’s best prospects could be a wise move.
Brighton and Brentford are prolific recruiters of talented young players. James undoubtedly fits their profile, but they will have to beat current leaders Ipswich in the race for the Blues starlet.
Replacements already signed?
It appears that plans have been made to prepare for the potential of departures in the middle of the park at Birmingham City this summer.
Sought-after Scottish prospect Marc Leonard has arrived on a permanent basis after much speculation, while attacking midfielder Willum Thor Willumsson is one of numerous statement additions.
They should provide adequate protection if James, or any other valuable midfield asset, leaves St. Andrew’s this summer.
The Welsh prospect is a good possibility for a significant move away, and these recent reports of interest boost the likelihood of a trade taking place.
