Championship side Leeds United are reportedly interested in taking Chelsea’s highly-rated full-back Reece James on loan in the January transfer window.
James, who has come through the Chelsea academy, is one of the many young talents that current manager Frank Lampard is hoping to give more opportunities to.
According to Football Insider, Leeds could strengthen their backline with the addition of the 19-year-old for a loan deal in January, with the report stating that Leeds Director of Football, Victor Orta, could take James on a long-term deal as well.
James made his Chelsea first-team debut earlier this season against Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup, where he scored once and made two assists in the Blues’ 7-1 win.
The teenager spent last season on loan at Wigan Athletic in the Championship, where he impressed with three goals and three assists in 45 games for the Latics.
James was injured at the start of the season, but has now returned to be a backup option to captain César Azpilicueta at right-back.
What will Reece James add to Leeds United?
The young English defender is one of the most promising young player in the Premier League, with his powerful runs with the ball at his feet and his great technical ability, as well as versatility.
James has the energy, drive, and pace to make runs down the flank, as well as put good crosses into the box. The 19-year-old can also shoot from long range, and move the ball quickly up to his attacking teammates.
He is also a versatile player who can play at right-back, part of a back three, or even as a defensive midfielder. This versatility will be a plus point at a club like Leeds, where manager Marcelo Bielsa requires players who can adapt to different systems.
The Chelsea defender is strong defensively as well, having the pace and strength to get back to help his defence out. He averaged 2.1 tackles and 2.3 clearances per game last season, while averaging 2.8 long balls per game.
Signing James would be a coup for Leeds as he is a supremely talented player, and the right full-back position is one that needs more options.
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