Newcastle United are set to compete with Southampton, Ipswich, and Atalanta for the signing of Birmingham City wonderkid Jordan James, according to HITC.
The Wales international has drawn comparisons to England and Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham following his breakthrough at St Andrew’s. Despite being just 20 years old, he has become a key player for the Blues.
Several Premier League clubs are interested in securing the midfielder, who is expected to depart this summer. Among them, Premier League newcomers Ipswich currently lead the race.
Ipswich Town Leading the Race for Jordan James
Newcastle and Southampton Also Interested
Birmingham’s relegation to League One has made it inevitable that James, who has already been dubbed “sensational” in his short career, will move on this summer. The club has made him available for around £10 million.
Kieran McKenna’s side has moved to the front of the queue as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of their Premier League campaign, following their surprise promotion in 2023/24.
Jordan James Championship Stats 2023/24
– Games: 25(17)
– Goals: 8
– Assists: 0
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side and Southampton have also shown interest, along with Brentford, Leicester City, and Brighton. Europa League winners Atalanta attempted to sign the Wales star in the January transfer window, but a deal did not materialize.
Now, the Tractor Boys are looking to secure a deal to bring him to Portman Road, having already spent over £60 million to bring in Omari Hutchison, Liam Delap, Jacob Greaves, and Arijanet Muric.
Southampton Also Interested in Matt O’Riley
Russell Martin Has Several Midfield Targets
With Ipswich leading the race for James, Southampton has turned to alternative midfield options. Celtic star Matt O’Riley has emerged as a top target, with the club making concrete moves in recent days, although the Scottish champions rejected a £14 million offer.
Southampton also faces competition from Atalanta for the Denmark star, who scored 18 goals and provided 13 assists in all competitions in 2023/24 as Celtic won the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup double.
In addition to O’Riley, Southampton is said to be in “pole position” to sign Metz midfielder Lamine Camara despite competition from Saudi Arabia. Al Qadsiah had a “crazy” £12.6 million offer rejected as the Senegal star prioritizes a move to the Premier League. Southampton’s opening offer was also turned down.