According to The Sun’s Chief Sport Reporter Martin Lipton, Manchester City could potentially sign Chelsea captain Reece James in the next 18 months.
This potential move comes as City has shown strong interest in the England international, and Lipton believes that Chelsea’s American owners may be willing to sell the fullback to generate funds, specifically mentioning a possible £80m selling price.
Lipton also acknowledges that although £80m is a significant amount for a player who has faced challenges with injuries in recent seasons, there is no denying that James has the potential to be a long-term replacement for Kyle Walker if he can maintain his fitness.
The decision for Chelsea to sell their captain mainly revolves around Financial Fair Play regulations. As James is a product of Chelsea’s academy, any sale of the player would result in pure profit for the club.
This echoes similar discussions surrounding Conor Gallagher’s future with Chelsea, as the midfielder’s status as a regular starter has also prompted speculation about a potential sale for financial reasons.
City’s interest in James is not a recent development. Before the fullback signed a six-year contract with Chelsea in September 2022, City had already been linked as a potential destination for the player.
Despite the belief that securing James would be unlikely at the time, it is evident that City has maintained a strong interest in the player, suggesting that they would be keen to make a move for him if he becomes available in the future.
Overall, Lipton’s comments point to the potential departure of Reece James from Chelsea within the next 18 months, with Manchester City being a likely destination.
This transfer could have significant implications for both clubs, as well as for the player’s future in the Premier League.
