West Ham lead race for Welsh teenager after long-standing interest from new manager

West Ham United are now believed to be leading the race for Welsh midfielder Jordan James.

James looks very likely to leave St Andrew's following Birmingham City's relegation from the Championship, having already attracted interest from Atalanta, Fiorentina, Crystal Palace and Wolves.

Now, according to journalist Alan Nixon, it is the Hammers who are leading the race for the 19-year-old, who has won 10 caps for his country since making his international debut in Croatia in March last year.

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New West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui is seen as a particularly keen admirer of James, having expressed interest when he was in charge at Molineux, although Nixon believes he could now face competition from winners Championship side Leicester City as they attempt to form a team. capable of returning to the elite.

Wales boss Rob Page has already tipped James to reach the top, and it seems more than likely he will move on this summer.

“I think he has proven himself at the highest international level, against the best midfielders in Croatia, to name just one team, [that] he is more than capable of playing at this level as [number] six,” Page said earlier this week.

“I know there's definitely interest. I wouldn't be surprised if he leaves. We'll have to wait and see.”