Leeds United Reportedly Showing “Strong Interest” in Birmingham City Midfielder
Following Glen Kamara and Archie Gray's departures, Leeds United are actively seeking midfield replacements. Boss Daniel Farke has prioritized overhauling the team's midfield this season.
Interest in players like Gabriel Sara continues, but another midfielder has caught Leeds United’s attention.
According to Football Insider, Leeds has shown a “strong interest” in 20-year-old Birmingham City midfielder Jordan James. The Wales international is viewed as a long-term replacement for Leeds’ midfield.
James became a full-fledged Wales international at age 18 during an EURO 2024 qualifier against Croatia and has since made 11 appearances for The Dragons.
Last season, James was one of the standout players for Birmingham City, though his efforts couldn’t prevent the club’s relegation. The Welsh international played 42 league matches, scoring eight goals.
Following Birmingham’s relegation, the club might need to sell their prized asset. James is in the final year of his contract, but Birmingham has an option to extend it for another year.
If the midfielder refuses to stay at his boyhood club, the West Midlands outfit might need to cash in on him this year.
Leeds United are set to step up their transfer activity, facing immense pressure to bolster their squad before the new season starts.
So far, Leeds has made only two signings, Joe Rodon and Jayden Bogle, while losing 16 first-team players either permanently or on loan.
Conversely, Birmingham is on a shopping spree, having already signed eight players for a total of £11.7 million.
Logic suggests that The Blues might need to offload a few players to balance their books, but Birmingham Live reports otherwise.
The West Midlands media outlet claims no bids have been on the table since January.
In January, Serie A side Atalanta made three offers for James, all of which were rejected. While there may not be any current interest from foreign clubs, Leeds now faces Premier League competition for the Welshman’s services.
Unlike Gabriel Sara, five Premier League clubs have shown interest in Jordan James.
Recently promoted Ipswich Town and Southampton, along with seasoned teams like Newcastle United, Brighton and Hove Albion, and Leicester City, are all interested in the Welsh midfielder.
The transfer market is going to be challenging for Leeds as they aim to revamp their squad under new manager Daniel Farke.
