'Risk' - Leeds United issued transfer warning after link to Leicester City loan star Jordan James
Leeds United issued transfer warning after link to Leicester City loan star Jordan James
Leeds United have been warned against signing Rennes midfielder Jordan James following the conclusion of his loan spell at Leicester City.
The 21-year-old has come to the end of his season-long loan at Leicester and is departing with a tally of 11 goals in 34 games.
He was a shining light in a dismal campaign for the Foxes, one that ended in a humiliating relegation from the Championship.
Leeds have been credited with interest in the Wales international, who plays alongside Whites quartet Karl Darlow, Joe Rodon, Ethan Ampadu and Daniel James in Craig Bellamy’s squad.
Leeds United sent transfer warning
However, former Aston Villa and Everton CEO Keith Wyness does not believe the midfielder would be a good fit for Leeds.
He told Football Insider’s Inside Track Podcast: “Whilst he’s done alright in a poor team at Leicester, I don’t see him being a vast improvement for Leeds. He would be more for one of the clubs coming up or for a club in the top of the Championship sort of level.
“It depends on what price he’s going to go for, but there would be a risk coming into an established Premier League club.
“Leeds will be looking for more experience and a bigger quality, more established presence in midfield, if they’re going to push on. You need three teams if you’re in the Championship, one to get up, one to stay up, and one to kick on in the Premiership. Leeds are now in that final phase of trying to kick on.
“Whilst Jordan James is a talented player and may suit somebody, I don’t think he’s going to be a good fit for Leeds.”
Jordan James’ career path
A product of Birmingham City’s academy, James made his senior breakthrough with the Blues during the 2021/22 season.
He was lured away from the Midlands by Rennes in 2024 and made 25 appearances across his maiden campaign in France.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for the former England youth international, who has already said goodbye to Leicester via social media.
He said: “A frustrating season, in which we fell short in so many places. Gutted. I just wanted to come on here to say thank you for all the support this season, from the minute I arrived I’ve felt nothing but love. An amazing club and fanbase and I wish you nothing but the best in the future. Thank you, Foxes.”