The Athletic has recently reported that Manchester City have identified Chelsea full-back, Reece James, as a target. It has been revealed that Man City boss Pep Guardiola is a big admirer of the England international’s talents and wants to bring him to the Etihad Stadium (via The Athletic).
James’ Rapid Rise At The English Capital
James enjoyed a solid campaign at Stamford Bridge after putting in a series of eye-catching performances for the Blues down the right flank. The London-born sensation participated in 47 matches for the West London outfit last season, scoring one goal and picking up five assists in the process across multiple competitions.
The 21-year-old has performed well to average 1.7 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 1.1 shots, 1.3 key passes and 1.1 dribbles per 90 minutes in Premier League football. He has even distributed the ball well from the right-wing, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 88.4% in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
James has shown some signs of progress with his performances of late, so Man City would be wise to engineer a move for him during this summer transfer window. At 21, he has still got a lot of room for improvement, so Pep Guardiola’s interest in him is justified.
Should Man City Get James On Board This Summer?
James is a powerful runner with the ball and can get to the byline to whip in a few inviting crosses into the opponent’s penalty area. He had done well to secure some important assists for Chelsea last season and also worked hard for his side on the defensive end of the field.
Tuchel has often preferred to use him as a right wing-back, a position where he has flourished playing in so far in this calendar year. James has the potential to become a world-class wide player someday, so Guardiola should consider getting him on board in this off-season as he will be a perfect long-term successor to Kyle Walker, who is about to embark upon the last legs of his playing career.
The seven-time England international has already begun to prove his worth in top-flight football which makes him a good fit for Man City this summer. Guardiola can ease him into his first-team plans before making him a regular starter at the Etihad Stadium in the future.
James will offer some serious competition for Walker and could help the Mancunian giants end their long wait for the UEFA Champions League in the coming seasons. With all things considered, the Premier League champions should make a move to land him ahead of the new season. Easier said than done obviously.
