Sun journalist Alan Nixon has claimed on his Patreon page (22/08. 5PM) that Tottenham Hotspur are eyeing a ‘surprise’ move for Leeds United winger Dan James in a £20million deal – a player once billed as the ‘next Gareth Bale’.
James, 24, made his first Premier League start of the season on Sunday as Leeds produced a stunning performance to beat Chelsea 3-0. It comes after the Wales ace missed the first game of the season, and was a sub at Southampton.
Joining the club from Manchester United last summer for £25million – after almost signing in January 2020 – James has been somewhat inconsistent. Still remaining an important part of the Leeds side, he only has four goals in 37 games.
Despite that, Tottenham are said to be pursuing a surprise deal. A fee of £20million could be enough for James, who has a contract until 2026 at Elland Road. TransferMarkt report that James shares the same agent as Fraser Forster.
Tottenham eyeing surprise move for Leeds winger James, £20m fee
James has endured a difficult start to life at Leeds. For much of last season, he was forced to play out of position as a striker. Patrick Bamford struggled with injury and that saw Marcelo Bielsa use the ex-Swansea man up top.
Against Chelsea, he was excellent as a winger. While he failed to score or assist, he looks as if he fits the way Jesse Marsch wants to play – especially in terms of his work rate and pressing. But Leeds do have other options.
Jack Harrison is on fire this season. Luis Sinisterra has come in to replace Raphinha. So, James might be seen as somewhat of a flexible commodity if the price is right. Whether Leeds will accept a £5million loss remains to be seen.
Antonio Conte might be looking at his work rate and consider him a viable option as a wing back in his 3-4-3 system. James, of course, would also offer cover for Son Heung-min and Dejan Kulusevski, and counts as a homegrown player.
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