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Chelsea could shockingly lose Reece James to Premier League rivals

By Phil Taylor

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 6: Reece James of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 6, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 6: Reece James of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 6, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images) /
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After the thrilling 4-4 draw between Chelsea and Manchester City, both sides could easily look at their defences and think we need to improve here. However, Pep Guardiola is reportedly interested in the future of his backline and is looking to splash the cash on a full-back to replace the ageing Kyle Walker with Reece James.

England international for England international

There is no doubt that Kyle Walker is still an incredibly competent full-back, and he fits the Pep Guardiola system incredibly well, offering versatility along the way. However, he is getting no younger, and after seven seasons with Manchester City, it could well be his last.

His replacement is expected to replace him fully in the international fold as well: Reece James. The 23-year-old has drawn comparisons to Walker throughout his career and could be about to take the same steps by joining the treble winners.

Would Reece James suit Manchester City?

Having been struck down with a serious hamstring injury this year, James is back and firing on all cylinders as Chelsea look to revive their season at this early stage.

With his pace, comfortability on the ball and leadership skills, James would easily slip into the Guardiola machine that he has created. As James can find key passes, it means that Guardiola could have a playmaker in the right-back position, which helps the total football style of play that Guardiola has instilled at the Etihad.

When would a transfer be likely?

January is out of the question, considering the importance that James has, and there is no urgent need to replace Walker halfway through the season. Still, it will certainly be entertaining that Manchester City will be chasing James this summer as they look to continue their dominance across Europe.

James might be reluctant to leave, considering his loyalty to Chelsea and the fact he is the captain of his boyhood club. However, as many players before him have faced the question of leaving a club he loves, e.g. Kalvin Phillips and Fabian Delph, for Manchester City, he could find it hard to turn down such an opportunity.

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