West Ham United are reportedly keeping a close eye on Birmingham City midfielder Jordan James following the Blues’ relegation to League One, according to the Birmingham Post.
West Ham has a history of unearthing gems from the Football League, with success stories like James Ward-Prowse and Jarrod Bowen. It seems they’re continuing this tradition by targeting the young Welsh midfielder.
The appointment of Julen Lopetegui likely signifies a shift in West Ham’s transfer strategy. Lopetegui will be working alongside sporting director Tim Steidten, and James could be one of their first collaborative signings.
Despite Birmingham City’s rubbish season and subsequent relegation, 20-year-old James emerged as a bright spot. He impressed with his performances, making 47 appearances and scoring 8 goals in the Championship.
West Ham aren’t the only club interested in James. He must be doing something right as newly promoted Premier League side Leicester City is also reportedly in the running for his signature.
Birmingham City is said to be holding out for a fee of £8.6 million for James. West Ham, with their experience in developing EFL talent, could see him as a potential star for the future.
James’ performances in a struggling Birmingham side were impressive. His talent and potential are undeniable. But there is a massive gulf between the Championship and the Premier League. If he can adapt relatively quickly,we could be getting a future star at a more than reasonable price.
He will cost West Ham at least 11 million. There is no way he will go on the cheap.
Couldn’t agree more. Will the new Brazilian be keeping Casey on the bench?
As for unearthing gems, how can you include JW-P? He had years of PL experience before relegation. The “gems” we unearthed include Hugill and Downes – not PL class. Benrahma wasn’t good enough either, so only Bowen and Dawson have been successful.
We battered the gooners in the youth cup final, so there must be talent in there. Give the kids a chance.
Most successful clubs are good at integrating youth while putting out a capable PL team. We should aspire to that.
My question about buying younger players from lower leagues is their ability compared with our homegrown. Is Jordan James in a relegated Championship team demonstrably 6 mil better than Freddie Potts in a decent League One team?
It’s quite telling on the club’s development ability when we have one of the most successful development squads we’ve had in years, yet we don’t have enough home grown talent to fulfill the quota.
While I’m not necessarily convinced that most of them will reach PL levels, it seems prudent to give at least the top rated few a chance. Money is short, why spend it on someone else’s‘maybe’?