Chelsea’s transfer ban has put a spanner in the works of the team’s pursuit of another Premier League title, but it is also a blessing in disguise for the talented young players of the club, who have time and again impressed in the youth leagues.
One of Chelsea’s most talented youngsters to have come through the youth academy recently is right-back Reece James, who played for Wigan Athletic last season.
The 19-year-old is now a target for Premier League side Crystal Palace, who are keen on signing him as a replacement for Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Palace are interested in signing the teenager on loan or a permanent deal from the Blues, as per the Sun. But the report states that Chelsea may not let go of James until the transfer ban appeal verdict comes out.
James joined the Chelsea set-up as a six-year-old, and has gone on to represent the Blues across youth levels before experiencing senior football last year, at Wigan Athletic, in the Championship.
The 19-year-old played 46 times in all competitions for the Latics and won the Man of the Match award on seven occasions.
The youngster has also played for the England under-20 team, and represented his country recently at the Toulon Tournament, where he suffered an injury.
Is Reece James a good option for Crystal Palace?
Signing a young and talented player like Reece James would be a coup for Crystal Palace, who have a huge void to fill at right-back after the departure of Wan-Bissaka.
James is a tremendous crosser of the ball, either from deep, or the by-line further up the field, while he is also a set-piece specialist.
The young Englishman ended the 2018-19 campaign with three goals and three assists for Wigan. James’ very good technical ability with the ball at his feet has resulted in some phenomenal goals from outside the box as well as well-taken crosses from set plays and open play.
A well-built and physically strong player, James can outmuscle opponents while attacking or defending, and also has the ability to run up and down the pitch.
The youngster is also a versatile player who can play as a right-back, centre-back, or even central midfield.
At 19, James will only improve and could be a valuable asset for Palace. Chelsea, on the other hand, might not sell James, but loan him to Palace to help him get Premier League experience under his belt, before challenging for a place in the Chelsea line-up.
