Wigan’s chances of keeping Reece James look slim amid reported Premier League interest

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Wigan Athletic loan star Reece James has been linked with Burnley, Crystal Palace and Brighton and Hove Albion.

According to a report in The Sun on Sunday (17/03; Page 57), Wigan Athletic loan star Reece James has caught the attentions of Premier League trio Burnley, Crystal Palace and Brighton and Hove Albion.

The talented right-back joined Wigan on a season-long loan deal and has been an almost ever-present for the Latics this season, starting 37 Championship games.

James is predominantly a right-back, but Wigan boss Paul Cook has opted to play him in a central midfield role over the past month and his performance levels have gone up a notch.

In his most recent outing, the 19-year-old grabbed an assist as Wigan thrashed relegation rivals Bolton Wanderers 5-2 at home.

James, currently contracted to Chelsea until 2022, has become a fans’ favourite at Wigan but his recent impressive performances have surely all-but ended the Lancashire club’s chances of retaining him beyond the season.

The Sun claim Burnley are keen on signing him on a season-long loan deal next term, while Palace and Brighton are reportedly seeking a permanent deal for the England U20 international.

Wigan, who came up from League One last term, probably have one of the lowest wage budgets in the Championship and up against top-flight clubs they simply can’t compete for sought-after players.

Chelsea have a history of loaning out their talented youngsters, and they don’t seem afraid to let them join fellow Premier League clubs with Nathan Ake and Ruben Loftus-Cheek previous examples.