According to The Sun, Newcastle United are ready to make a move for Reece James in the upcoming January transfer window. It is believed that Steve Bruce is really keen on securing his services and a half a season loan could reportedly be on the cards. However, his side could face stiff competition from Leeds United, with Marcelo Bielsa also interested in signing the youngster.
Reece James’ scope for making a breakthrough at Chelsea
James returned to Chelsea in the summer on the back of a productive campaign with Wigan Athletic that saw him become one of the most sought-after English talents in the market. And with the Blues restricted to make any new signings at least in January, unless their ban gets overruled, let us take a look at James’ scope for making a breakthrough at Chelsea.
The fact that Chelsea have already loaned out Davide Zappacosta means James is currently the number one alternative for Cesar Azpilicueta at Stamford Bridge. But, the Spaniard, after enduring a tough start to the campaign, has now become one of their key performers, with Chelsea winning their last four Premier League matches.
In fact, Azpilicueta hasn’t missed a single minute in the Premier League this season. And though this may be a good thing for Chelsea, it doesn’t bode well for James as he is unlikely to get much game-time, unless Frank Lampard puts his faith in the youngster and makes him a regular for the Champions League games.
It is, therefore, hard to imagine James making a breakthrough in the Premier League, especially given Chelsea’s current form.
Should he move to Newcastle?
Moving to Newcastle United for a six-month loan deal could turn out to be an excellent deal for James. Bruce has already promised him regular game-time, and the move makes sense in several aspects.
Emil Krafth and Javier Manquillo have both struggled to provide the solidity at right-back while DeAndre Yedlin has suffered from a groin strain. The addition of James, in that regard, could be a massive boost for the Magpies.
The 19-year-old’s attacking tendencies make him an ideal fit for Bruce’s counter-attacking approach, where fullbacks often play a huge role. That means James will not only get regular gametime but will also suit well to Newcastle’s tactics, considerably increasing his chances of making a breakthrough.
Should Chelsea let him go?
James’ proposed loan move to Newcastle makes sense from the player’s perspective. But, it could turn out to be a risky move from Chelsea’s point of view given the fact that they have no alternatives for Azpilicueta aside from the youngster.
As mentioned earlier, they have already loaned out Zappacosta, leaving James as the only other alternative in the first-half. And with the Blues unlikely to be able to sign new players in January, offloading the defender could potentially be a massive risk – something Lampard simply cannot afford to take at the moment.
