Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is now reportedly looking to raid Chelsea for another star to bolster his squad.
After luring Mateo Kovacic away from Stamford Bridge in July, the Citizens are now reportedly hoping a substantial offer for Reece James will tempt the London club into selling the fullback to them, according to Football Transfers.
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With Kyle Walker recently signing a contract extension that will keep him at the Etihad until 2026, James would provide Guardiola with another strong option at right-back and ultimately a succession plan for Walker, who, at the age of 33, is approaching the twilight of his career.
The report further suggests that the interest in James stems from City's desire to sustain their dominance in England's top flight and in Europe.
The Manchester club could, however, face strong competition for James' signature from LALIGA giants Real Madrid, who are also believed to be keen on securing the Chelsea captain's services, while FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also understood to be on the list of interested suitors.
It is understood, though, that Chelsea have no desire to sell the England international, who signed a new deal in September that only expires in 2028, and Blues boss Mauricio Pochettino is also a big fan of James, having previously praised him and affirmed his importance at the club.
"I think he's not only a player that can be a leader, because he's a leader with his character, his qualities," the Argentine said at a recent press conference.
"He's a person also that's going to be the future of the club. He came through the Academy.
"I think for us, for me and for the club, he's a perfect player, person, to be a captain."
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The 23-year-old has endured a difficult start to the campaign, however, picking up a hamstring injury in the opening game of the season against Liverpool, with an exact date for his return yet to be confirmed.
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