Everton are plotting a swoop to sign Chelsea right-back Reece James, according to Football Insider.
The reliable news outlet claims that the Toffees are determined to sign the 19-year-old defender in the summer transfer window and see him as someone who could be a long-term replacement for Seamus Coleman.
It is understood that the “highly-rated” teenager has become a top target of Everton’s now that the Premier League season has finished but Chelsea might decide against cashing in on the in-form full-back due to their transfer ban.
Good move for Everton?
James has been one of the best players in the Championship this season and as he is only 19-years-old, Everton could be bagging themselves a hugely impressive prospect if they can get a deal done in the summer.
He has made 46 appearances across all competitions for Wigan, scoring three goals and supplying three assists while playing as both a right-back and a defensive midfielder.
Everton could really do with an understudy to Coleman and James is the perfect fit for that role.
This is Futbol rating 10/10
Likely to happen?
It all seems to depend on whether or not Chelsea, who finished the season in third, would be willing to offload James in the summer.
The England Under-20 international has played so well this season and usually a Premier League club would give the youngster some game-time next season once he returns.
However knowing the way that Chelsea operate, they just constantly send players out on loan every season before eventually selling them.
James’ value may be at it’s highest now and that could mean that Everton stand a chance of signing him.
Chelsea’s transfer ban could change all of that though.
This is Futbol rating 3/10