Man City 'target move for Chelsea right back Reece James this summer'

Manchester City are interested in Chelsea right back Reece James and have added the in-form star to their shortlist, according to reports.

James is said to be admired by Pep Guardiola, who is braced for a busy summer with an overhaul lined up at the Etihad, and he has become City's latest big-name target.

The Athletic claim that Chelsea are unwilling to sell James, who would be joining a rival in the title race, but City are thought to be keen on brokering a deal regardless.

After making his first-team breakthrough in September 2019, James' stock has risen, culminating in his superb performance against City in the Champions League final.

He has made 84 appearances in total over the last two seasons, and his impressive form has caught the eye of the reigning champions.

Guardiola was left particularly struck by James' displays against his team, and is keen to bring him in despite the competition the England man would face.

Both Kyle Walker, who is a Three Lions team-mate of James, and Joao Cancelo are adept in the position - and the arrival of their newest target would leave them with an embarrassment of riches.

However, despite the quality of his current options, Guardiola wants to press ahead with a swoop for James, who has four years left on his deal at Stamford Bridge.

James' versatility, which allows him to play in the heart of defence and midfield, is another trait of his that City are understood to appreciate.

Chelsea's pursuit of Inter Milan wing back Achraf Hakimi, who is reportedly now set to join Paris Saint-Germain instead, has left City seriously believing the switch may be possible.

The Athletic add the talks with Inter have 'sent out a message' to City, and that they hint at doubts over whether James will be a regular first-team player in the long-term in west London.

It has also been highlighted that James remains one of the lowest-paid stars at Chelsea, despite having penned fresh terms in January 2020, but the length of his deal may prove a stumbling block.

City may not even be able to snap up James this summer, though, with the club eyeing up a mouth-watering double swoop for Harry Kane and Jack Grealish.

Even with the warchest available to Guardiola, wrapping up all three moves would likely prove a bridge too far.

Sportsmail reported on Friday that City are confident an offer of £100million would be enough to see them sign Grealish from Aston Villa.

Villa have not given up hope of keeping Grealish and are prepared to hand him an improved contract, but City believe the prospect of Champions League football next season will aid their cause.

The past week is understood to have handed City fresh encouragement that the deal may be struck after Euro 2020.

Meanwhile, there are fears at the club that Tottenham will remain firm over their price tag for talisman Kane, despite his open desire for a new challenge.